Student from Mission Viejo, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

The campus feels safe.

Clubs and Activities

Plenty of activities and clubs are available.

Great for these types of students

Christians and those who love to serve and live in community.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

If you miss your pet from back home, you can visit the turtle pond and watch your new favorite friends swim and bask in the sun.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is pricey but generous scholarships are available for those who apply.

What to do for fun

Catch a football game in Azusa's own stadium. Join intramural sports, clubs, and other activities.

Food and Dining

The food options are limited, especially for vegetarians.

Dorm Life

The RA's had decorated the common areas like a board straight from Pinterest, adding a homey, cheerful touch to the dorms. The community is accepting and friendly, so new students are welcomed wholeheartedly.

Academic Rigor

Azusa is not ranked super high nationally, but the professors and classes are sufficient.

Tips for prospective students

Apply for scholarships! Get to know your professors, get involved on campus, and stay focused.

In three sentences

Azusa is a home away from home, with a friendly community and amazing professors who care about each student. There are two campuses, and students can travel between them by bike, skateboard, or trolley. It's hard to beat the beautiful Southern California weather all year long!

Anonymous

12/02/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
2 of 162

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Campus Safety

APU Campus Safety is very efficient in sending out information on crimes in the area and also allow the students to join Campus Safety to monitor the campus. From my personal experience, the campus is safe, I have walked alone and nothing has happened but of course things do happen just like on any college campus, but it is A LOT less likely to happen here.

Greek Life

There is no greek life for students unless your a Bio major and the fraternities are for pre-med or pre-dental and they are mainly for networking and professional purposes. Other than that, APU does not offer any greek life.

Clubs and Activities

I have not joined any clubs because I am a student athlete but there are so many clubs and things going on. There are weekend hiking/backpacking trip that you can do, preview weekends for the High Sierra study abroad semester, mission trips/outreach trips and so much more. There are so many ways that you can get involved!

Great for these types of students

APU is a Christian school. it is a requirement that you attend chapel 3 times a week but you are allowed 10 absences for each semester. Its is so easy to get your 3 requirements because there are at least 5 services offered every week. APU takes your spiritual life very seriously and there will even be professors who will pray before the class begins. Don't worry if you're not religious because I think that this allows you to learn about Christianity and decide what you believe and don't believe in.

Bang for the buck

This school is expensive but what do you expect, it is a private school. APU does give a lot of financial aid so there's no way that you will be paying the full $40K. Each class is challenging and enjoyable in its own way but sometimes they will get boring. If you graduate with a degree and end up with the job you want, then yes, APU is worth it.

What to do for fun

Within my first couple months here, I probably went to the beach 5 or 6 times. Having the beach not much more than an hour away makes it nice for a day trip to just get away for a little while. You can choose between Santa Monica, Newport, Huntington, Laguna, and Long Beach. There's probably other areas you can go to but those are the main/well known beaches that evenness goes to. Disneyland and Six Flags are also pretty close and a lot of students here get season passes because they are able to go so many times. Pasadena is only about 25 minutes away which makes it nice to go and explore on days when you don't have class and you want to have fun for free:) There are mountains behind the school which is good for the people that like to hike because there are plenty of trails. If you're someone from a place like Colorado, you'd think the mountains are wimpy. Sorry, this is California, get used to it. Overall, there's a lot you can do in the surrounding area so you'll always have something to do. :)

Food and Dining

The food is decent. It does get old after a while though. There are certain things at the different venues on campus that are good though., but the dining venues are: Umai Sushi (which is on West Campus), The Den which serves pizzas, burgers, grilled cheeses, etc.), The Dining Hall (ordinary cafeteria food.... I personally only eat breakfast here), The Grill (this is also on West Campus and they serve both chinese and burgers and such), Cornerstone Coffeehouse (pretty much a starbucks on campus but they make amazing smoothies too), Paws and Go (a small store that sells snacks and drinks along with small packs of advil or toiletries in case of an emergency), The Market ( pretty much the same thing as Paws and Go but they have more breakfast items and an AMAZING milkshake machine), and Mexicali (APU's version of Chipotle, it's pretty good and most of the time the best choice for lunch or dinner).

Dorm Life

The RA's take their job seriously in making sure each freshman feels welcome here. They set up many different events that you have the option to participate in such as: GYRAD (Get Your Roommate A Date), My Tie (guys send their ties up the elevator to the girl's floor and they pick one which ends up being their date for the night), and others as well. So far, everyone is super friendly and its easy to make friends with everyone who lives in your building. Of course, every year the freshman will be different in their personality and how they mesh but overall, the people that you meet here are so friendly and welcoming.

Academic Rigor

I will be honest, the courses are tough. APU wants to challenge you both academically and spiritually. As long as you pay attention during your classes and do your assignments, you should pass. If you have trouble with the class, your professor is there to help you in any way they can. In one of my classes, I got a low grade on one of my exams and my professor wrote a note saying to ask her if I needed any help preparing for the next one. The professors care about you and your success. The class sizes are small so you are able to get to know the professors and they get to know you.

Tips for prospective students

APU is a place for academic success, spiritual growth, and making a difference in the world one you leave here. The faculty is here to make sure that happens but you have to be willing to try.

In three sentences

APU is a great place to grow in your faith, meet amazing people, and develop into the person you will be for the rest of your life. With guest speakers, they are able to open you up to seeing the world in a different perspective and be inspired to learn more about your faith. You will meet so many amazing people here, people who will support you and and you may even meet your future spouse.

Esther from West Covina, CA

Campus safety is a biggie in this university. They encourage students to see and tell, and have their own campus security on patrol.

Greek Life

Sorry to disappoint, but nope. Nada. None. Next topic.

Clubs and Activities

There is almost always an event going on, whether in sports, clubs, or dorm/campus events.

Great for these types of students

APU is great for the student who is a deep believer in Jesus Christ, or for those who are not but are interested in knowing more about Him. The professors may talk long and hard about God in their lectures, but no one here will force you to believe. This university is the most fitting for hard-core, studious scholars. Those who work hard and turn in their assignments in a timely manner gets noticed and applauded. If you are one who wants to breeze by college in academics, then there are plenty of other colleges out there who will let you slide, but not here in APU.

Bang for the buck

Definitely! As long as you work hard on your end, your money here will be worth it. Not to mention that APU gives generously in their scholarships as well...

What to do for fun

Downtown LA, Disneyland, the beach, good eateries at Pasadena--these are all within driving distances from campus. And the cozy coffeshop in the corner are the perfect place to hang out with your buddies.

Food and Dining

Food and dining options are of fairly good quality, so it is easy to overeat. Slightly different food is served at every meal, but their breakfast choices are the best of the three meals. There are actually quite a few other mini eateries on both East and West Campus. In addition, APU also has a mini supermarket and their own little Chipotle place.

Dorm Life

I do not know exactly about the dorm life, because I commute. They take safety very seriously, although some still manage to slip away with a few fire alarm pranks here and there. That only applies to a 'certain' dorm, however.

Academic Rigor

In and out of the classroom, students are challenged in their academic schoolwork. The professors genuinely care about you and your success in their classes, while still keeping you challenged and moving forward. I love how they arranged most classes have no more than 30 students each, so that the professor can really get to know his/her students on both an academic and personal level. The smaller class size has also enabled me to meet and make some of my best friends. These deep relationships would never have formed if I was in the typical UC 400-students GE class.

In three sentences

A Christian college who is truly passionate in incorporating their faith into the classroom teachings. They are known best for their nursing and music programs, even though they are working to build up on their quality in the music area. Also, every student you meet is friendly and helpful; they really do make the difference in this school (seemingly) in the middle of nowhere. Although this college is a bit on the pricey side, you really do get the bang of your buck--that is, if you keep up to your end of the learning process.

Sara from San Jose, CA

Does not exist! Choirs are the closest to a sorority or fraternity on campus, and they are fabulous experiences!

Bang for the buck

There are definitely more cost effective options, but I find the experience worth half of college tuition alone.

What to do for fun

There are so many options! Besides going to LA, the beach, or any of the fun cities around, there are numerous activities on campus. You can participate in intramural sports, many clubs, dorm events, and fun all-the-time activities like the gym or libraries. Nerdy, but enjoyable.

Food and Dining

Many delicious food options, lots of variety, many different locations for convenience. Only reason for 4 not 5 stars is there are not many healthy options, although they are available if you look for them!

Dorm Life

I lived on a floor with all the other honors kids, so my experience was different than most other living situations on campus. I loved living with the people I did, experiencing classes together, having intellectual discussions, and creating strong friendships.

Academic Rigor

APU is just as rigorous as any other university - you'll work your tail off but have an absolute blast doing so!

Tips for prospective students

Follow your gut! God has a plan for your life and He will show you the best school for your circumstances if you only ask! I pray that you find the school you belong at, even if it isn't APU, because the plans God has for your life are much bigger than the college you may choose! Also, you don't have to stay somewhere that you are miserable; give it time,

In three sentences

APU is a place you go to deepen your relationship with Christ, create life-long friendships, and prepare for living, working, and existing as a Christian in a secular world. There is exceptional community on campus and knowledgeable professors and faculty. The campus is lovely and its central location makes it ideal for lovers of the beach, LA, and the mountains!

Mari from Goleta, CA

02/27/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus Safety keeps you very informed about any threats in the area as well as ways to stay safe. They provide self defense and awareness training and also make themselves available to accompany you from one campus to the other if you have late night classes. They do not try to make you oblivious to crime or safety concerns, but they give you the tools and resources to remain safe and secure.

Greek Life

None

Clubs and Activities

There are plenty of ethnic and hobby related clubs to get involved in. The clubs host a lot of campus wide events for the whole school to get involved in as well.

What to do for fun

There are constant school, club, and community activities to get involved in year round. It is a nice area close enough to LA to spend a day in the city but far away enough to spend the day hiking in the Azusa hills. There are plenty of places to go to such as ice skating or roller skating that is near by. The beach is only a half hour away as well! If you feel like having a lazy day as well the campus provides areas to relax and be at peace.

Food and Dining

There are many different types of dining choices from sub sandwiches to hamburgers and chicken tenders to pizza to asian cuisine. You will always have plenty of variety of good food.

Dorm Life

Dorm life anywhere has its ups and downs, but at Azusa dorm life is so committed to making you feel at home and comfortable with who you are. There are always plenty of fun activities to do too!

Academic Rigor

Azusa has a high expectation for academic success, however they provide you with all the right resources to achieve success efficiently. You will learn more here about academics as well as self than you could even imagine!

Tips for prospective students

If you are looking for a Christ-centered college that is all about academic success and rock solid community this is the place for you! It can get difficult to stay active at times but it is not hard to make friends and develop community here. There are also so many different ways to get involved in the school and no matter what you do you will have a lot of fun and make close friends and memories.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is a loving, devoted, christ-centered college whose mission is to connect every student to God, each other and the community/world. Azusa provides a high level of academic success as well as a loving and devoted teaching staff who wants to see every student succeed. Azusa also provides various clubs, art programs, athletics programs, study abroad programs, and community based programs that you can get involved in.

Brianna from Los Angeles, CA

01/07/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

none

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs Zombies! It's a school-wide game that lasts a week. People sign up to be humans or zombies and you throw socks at the zombies to stun them. If you are a zombie, you just have to touch the human to infect them. I believe there's a vaccination center on the lawn. Humans wear a bandana on their arm and Zombies put the bandana on their head.

What to do for fun

You really have to seek out things here, but Campus life (called communiversity here) does a fairly good job of providing opportunities for students to get involved and have events on campus. There are plenty of hiking trips through the school as well as festivals for music and fun, but don't expect to find parties here everywhere. If you have a car, going to the beach, Pasadena and surrounding areas is fun!

Food and Dining

Personally, the food isn't that healthy here, and there is a noticeable difference in quality in West Campus food and East Campus food. If you have the Dining plan, it is very easy to over-eat, even though they give you a weekly plan. I don't have the meal plan anymore because it is too expensive, but there are a lot of people that do like the food here. The pizza place, (similar concept as Pieology) is pretty decent, as is Mexicali, and most of the West Campus dining options are pretty good.

Dorm Life

Have a good relationship with your RA and try to go to the events! It can get boring and lonely if you don't, since it is especially hard to make friends if you are shy. It's all about your initiative to talk to people on your hall, but the RA's really reach out to you as well!

Academic Rigor

By far I have been the most challenged here. It's a great place if your are really driven in your subject area but it is also a good place for people that are trying to find their major as well.

Tips for prospective students

Try to take a tour on a day that is not preview day so that you can get a real glimpse of college life without the hype of preview day.

In three sentences

It's a great school for those that are very studious and want a small, friendly environment. Professors are truly invested in their students and keep the class sizes small. Great community here, which you'll hear a lot.

Elizabeth from Elk Grove, CA

12/23/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

Lots of options! Some great, some just okay.

Dorm Life

Freshman year you live in a dorm but after that you can live in an on-campus apartment. I transferred in so I never lived in the dorms, but the apartments are nice. And decorating can make any place feel like a home.

Academic Rigor

It can be challenging but the teachers are always willing to help you.

Tiffany from San Jacinto, CA

08/14/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Campus safety is excellent. Whenever there is something going on campus, suspicious or not, every student is notified via email or text. There are also emergency polls located all over campus, and campus safety workers that patrol the campus 24/7.

Greek Life

There is a medical group on campus that is like a sorority but more like a club for students that want to work in the medical field

Clubs and Activities

There are so many activities on campus from arts to outreach to sports for fun (or professional), business groups, community service etc.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for open-minded students looking to challenge themselves academically, socially, and spiritually. It is also great for students who prefer small classes and like to create relationships with professors. In addition, it is great for students who like having resources such as writing help and tutoring.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a tradition on campus that happens at the beginning of the year where students get together and have a huge bonfire and burn old t-shirts either from high school or their year before. It's something that symbolizes the fresh start of the new year. There are also a lot of events that provide free food for those very budgeted college students that need a free meal every once in a while.

What to do for fun

Our school has a lot of activities from concerts, to festivals, sports meets, dances, and a lot more opportunities to get to know your campus and the people in it.

Food and Dining

There are a lot of choices of eatery on campus, from sushi to mexican food. There are also great grab and go shops where you can stop by in between classes to grab a snack.

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms was so awesome! If you are considering living on campus, do it. It is definitely an experience that you don't want to miss out on. The relationships you build with roommates and others in your hall are so amazing because they become like your lifeline when you are stressed or down. It is like having a family to go back to after class. Plus living on campus allows you to have campus resources at your fingertips such as the library, coffee shops, study areas, and study groups.

Academic Rigor

Classes are challenging but doable. If you are interested in your classes and are willing to put in the work any student can succeed. Prioritizing your time is always very important.

Tips for prospective students

Whether or not you are a Christian this is an excellent school to attend. No matter what you need help with, whether it be selecting classes best for you, on-campus jobs, studying, writing essays, there is always someone available.

In three sentences

APU is an excellent school. The campus' and students' energy is amazing. Small classes and very caring professors.

Anjelica from Ontario, CA

06/10/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Food and Dining

There are many good places to eat on campus but might get a bit repetitious. It may be hard for a vegan to get by but there are a lot of places to eat around campus that are walking distances. They sell food from sushi to pizza to bbq to sandwiches. It is a good idea to buy a meal plan if you buy food on campus because of the prices.

Dorm Life

I am a commuter but I did spend the weekend in the dorms during preview weekends and spend a lot of time in friends' apartments. Like all living arrangements, it is not always easy to live with people but easy to figure out a solution. There are always accommodations that can be made and people to talk to.

Academic Rigor

I would have to say much is expected of you as a student at APU. The professors expect nothing less than your best but will help you as much as they can. Whether it's extra help from them outside of the classroom, finding a tutor or just talking about your problems, they are there to hear what you have to say. I have never had so many loving relationships with my professors at one school. Many, not all, pray before class begins and/or before tests. Depending on your major, classes can be very challenging. The general classes aren't as easy as people may think. Some seem to be as hard as an upper division classes so some professors tell their students not to take the class lightly.

Tips for prospective students

Azusa Pacific will be as fun as you make it to be. There are always activities to do and always people to meet. People are always smiling as you walk by and holding the door open for you. It's not like other colleges where people ignore each other. If you see the same person over and over, its expected to go up to them and say hi even if you don't have any classes together. Even though its quiet during the weekends, there is a lot to do during the week. There are dances, mini carnivals, beach trips, and much more off campus. Despite Azusa being a Christian college, there are still drinking parties but it's easier to say no thank you. The majority of the students understand your position and won't pressure you any further than just asking if you want a drink.

In three sentences

It is such a great experience to be a student at APU whether you are commuting or dorming. Getting involved in as many activities as possible, without ignoring your classes, is the smartest way to have a wonderful time during your years. No matter what your major is, all professors care and make an effort to help you with any material you may not understand.

Anon

04/01/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I'd give CS a solid 3 stars only pertaining to the intervention of police and other officers at occasional times of what were thought to be emergencies. They did great at responding to the situations and keeping students safe at the moment. The reason I left off 2 stars is for the fact that majority of campus safety are student workers who, if ever a situation were to occur, would not know what to do. Most are scrawny students who walk up and down the sidewalk with flashlights, never really paying mind to the fact that all entrances into the school are never closed. Honestly, I feel like they should better choose their workers on skill and ability to protect students.

Greek Life

No frats or sororities at APU ): Sorry.

Clubs and Activities

One word..Intermurals. Two more words..Study Abroad.

Great for these types of students

Those who are looking for an encounter rather than an experience (typical college experience).

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Rumor has it that Segerstrom is haunted. I wouldn't doubt it.

Bang for the buck

God will do great things.

What to do for fun

APU has a strict no alcohol, drug-use (as does any other college) yet here it is like openly condemning yourself to your fellow school mates. Although parties are not obviously apparent, you can always find one if you really look (again, it's like openly condemning yourself). Outside of this, APU is right at the foothills of beautiful mountain ranges, which many venture up quite often. There are stores and theatres nearby that many students regularly go to. And being just 40 minutes away from the large-city area of LA , Disneyland, and beaches, APU students can always find something new to do.

Food and Dining

Food is pretty good, high-quality but even though there are many eateries around campus, majority of your meals will go to eating at the Den, the Cafe, or the coffeeshop. With this in mind, the same eating choices can be a bit much. Good thing there are other nearby eating choices off campus to add variety to my dining. As long as you remember not to stick to an unhealthy eating pattern, you'll be fine.

Dorm Life

I had a great dorm life experience because I was lucky enough to dorm in Trinity. The RAs and RARs made sure I had the best experience with my hall mates as well as interacting with APU culture. Hall events and student events made such an awesome college experience. This is one of the best reasons I love my school.

Academic Rigor

Totally dependent on your major, yet I would say the average work load is quite hefty. However, if you can maintain organization and stick to lesson plans you'll do fine.

Tips for prospective students

Try to see as much of the campus as possible. Check out all dorm spaces, not only Trinity's because 2/3 chances say you probably won't even dorm there. Ensure what you really want (academically and spiritually) coincides with what the school offers. Don't

In three sentences

Awesome campus life. Great environment in and out of the classroom. Not for the party-hardy type.

Meaghan from Thousand Oaks, CA

03/28/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety here is fairly good. They take concern about your safety and are always available to pick you up from the other campus at night if you need. Though, they also are not too aware, as I have gotten my bike stolen.

Greek Life

There is no Greek life on campus. As sophomores you no longer live in dorms, you have apartments, so it's not like you have to live in dorms for four years. It just depends what your personality is and if you are okay with not having Greek life.

Clubs and Activities

There are several clubs and activities on campus here at APU. Only of my biggest problems coming into this year was that I signed up and devoted myself to way to any clubs and activities on camps that I had to dial it back down a little second semester. APU really does do a good job providing ways for people to find their click and get involved.

Great for these types of students

APU is great for students that are okay with not having parties every day and okay with the strict rules of no alcohol. APU is a private Christian school so it is not as crazy and chaotic as some state or public schools. APU is not necessarily for the more mellow, just for those people that are okay on semi-strict rules, especially in college.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Some exciting locations on campus are the brick wall where people can put their prayers or hardships into the cracks for others to read and pray for them. There is also places like sam's sub that have delicious sandwiches that everyone loves eating! There is also trinity tables which is a place where all the freshman students hang out and do their homework.

Bang for the buck

APU is expensive, though they do provide a lot of options and resources for the students. The education here is very good and the professors are amazingly talented. APU is really a great school especially with all you receive.

What to do for fun

College is what you make of it. There are not a lot of places to go around in Azusa and hang out and it is not very safe but if you embrace college life and dorm life then it will be exciting as you will just be hanging out with friends, watching movies on week nights. Though there is not a lot of off campus activities there are football, basketball, and several other sporting events that APU has to entertain its students on the weekends.

Food and Dining

The food at APU gets boring, just like any other school. There are actually a lot of options for the students so the food and dining is really nothing to complain about, especially for college. The only complaint would be that APU closes their dinning venues very early on the weekends; so if you eat dinner after 7pm you then have to go off campus because everything is now closed.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is amazing! If anyone is thinking of living in the dorms I would say do it because this is the time in your life to live in the dorms and experience the crazy 2am fun that goes on in the halls. These girls in my dorm have become my family and I know the relationships I have built in the dorms are long lasting.

Academic Rigor

Academic rigor is very weighted on your major. Nursing and science majors have a hard time. The teachers here are amazing, though they do expect a lot so be prepared to study a lot if you are those majors. Communication and psychology majors are not too rigorous, though it is college and it is harder than high school.

Tips for prospective students

If you are a prospective student my advice would be to first realize how expensive APU is and take that into great consideration. APU is an amazing school and you will fall in love with, as leaving will be one of the hardest things to do. Get involved at the school, APU does an amazing job to throw opportunities in freshman's faces; take advantage of them and get involved as much as you can, though remember school should always still come first.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is a college that is definitely unlike any other school, with its bible classes and God-first atmosphere. The professors connect with each student and though the school is quite large for a private school, the teacher student ratio is amazing. The only complaint while I rate APU would be for the administration to help out the students more, for several times I have had academic or financial aid questions and everyone just sends me to another department for help, not knowing themselves the answer.

Student from Hawaii

02/20/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The school's campus safety is excellent. The school is very safe and nobody should ever feel unsafe. There are campus safety workers posted outside of the school every day and night making sure that there isn't anything suspicious happening in the area. If something does happen, then they let students know what happened and make sure to keep the students safe.

Greek Life

No greek life.

Clubs and Activities

Many clubs and activities to choose from. Everything from Rugby to The surfing club and even football.

Great for these types of students

Everyone is welcomed for these events. These events are for all students.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The RA's and other resident life leaders hold a show for students, mostly for incoming students. There is a homecoming dance every year and a Halloween event that people hold outside on the lawn.

What to do for fun

Each dorm has a different event that they plan and there are a few parties that the resident life leaders hold in the beginning of the year.

Food and Dining

The food is good overall, it can get tiring to eat at the same places everyday.

Dorm Life

The dorms are overall very nice and welcoming. There are definitely a few areas that can be improved on, but there are people who can help solve the problems.

Academic Rigor

APU is a school that focuses on the academics, so classes are rigorous and challenge students to try their best and incorporate what they're learning to the real world.

Tips for prospective students

Living on campus would be easy because most of the classes are by the dorms or on the other campus. Don't be afraid to say hi to other students because everyone is very friendly and will most likely start a conversation with you.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is an excellent school if you are looking at some place that focuses on the academics. The school is very welcoming and treats you like family. It is a place where everyone is welcomed.

Amber from Citrus Heights, CA

Very active. Emails are sent periodically if there is ever an incident on or near campus and campus offices are everywhere all the time.

Greek Life

None. Unless Honors students count..,,

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a skit that the Orientation leaders put on for all of the incoming students called Good Times. It's basically an outdoor SNL episode with APU themed skits. It's a good way to get the students to know each other and laugh together, especially when it's held the day that the parents go back home.

Bang for the buck

$40,000 is a big sum of money no matter what you spend it on. I must say that I've thoroughly enjoyed the community here and the courses and I've learned a lot of valuable information pertinent to my aspired career path.

What to do for fun

There is a movie theatre and an arcade right by the school Communiversity is always putting on events. Pasadena is just half an hour away and there are plenty of shopping activites as well as sport-like activities to engage in like sky zone and ice skating. Disneyland and Universal Studios aren't too far away and students who have passes usually go there at least once a month.

Food and Dining

You will hear complaints about the food frequently but it is not really THAT bad. Their are options off campus and students can always buy groceries at the store a quarter mile away. The only complaint I have is that the food isn't always fresh. It's hard to find some fresh fruit here or freshly cooked meat. Just eat the food earlier in the week and leave the second half to freshly bought meals from the store.

Dorm Life

Cliquing and drama are to be expected but can be easily avoided. Choose the right friends and always check yourself to make sure you are not singling someone out or becoming to cliquey. There are about 50 people on each hall and each one of them has a different personality and a different story to boot. Make sure you take advantage of the people directly around you. Don't judge a book by it's cover either. I met someone with a very interesting cover and we turned out to be best friends.

Academic Rigor

The work varies between majors. Some courses are harder than others. Some of my film classes require occasionally six hours of after school work not to mention the weekend film shoots. I know a lot of nursing majors who, on paper, should be spending 28 hours a day studying according to their classes which isn't even possible. It's all a matter of balancing the social life with the academic life and setting priorities and parameters.

Tips for prospective students

Know that you are going to change. The required Biblical and philosophical courses actively challenge you knowledge and you faith but all the same make those beliefs stronger. I leave the class every day with more questions than answers but a flaming desire to study them myself and discover the truth myself.

In three sentences

APU is a Christian based college that focuses on integrating Christ into career paths as well as effectively teach the skills necessary to obtain a job in such a field. APU is a very open environment in which anyone of any religion or political spectrum can express their beliefs in a discussion based conversation. The APU community strives for united growth and never fails to produce individuals with strong relational capabilities, a vast knowledge, and bright futures.

Amanda from Victorville, CA

02/13/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is excellent so many patrolling around and so many extra precautions.

Food and Dining

There are so many options!!! Cheeseburgers to Chinese food to Mexican food it's so awesome! We even have a coffee shop that is so valuable for a college student!! The meal plans are great and makes things a breeze.

Dorm Life

The dorm life is awesome everyone is so positive and outgoing it's hard not to be the same way! And I think it is great that you can go any ones room and ask for something and they will most likely help you.

Academic Rigor

The work is hard but what do you expect when going to a private school, in my perspective your paying for a great education versus a cal state education. Also getting the classes you need is such a breeze no waiting in lines. They offer so many classes of the same class it's unbelievable if you don't get the class you need.

Tips for prospective students

-Take a lot of notes, study -Do not be afraid to ask questions

In three sentences

APU is definitely a great environment and a great school, the people here are so friendly and helpful. The God First environment is very easy going and actually helps students come to their faith in Christ. Also the teachers are very understanding and actually help you through tough situations that you are having non like many other colleges.

Rebecca from San Francisco, CA

Campus Safety is always on top of everything. They make everyone feel extremely safe.

Greek Life

no Greek life here.

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs and ways to get involved on campus.

Great for these types of students

APU is best for Christians looking for a Christian community. Not everyone is Christian, so you get an opportunity to meet people from different faiths as well.

Bang for the buck

Definitely worth every penny!

What to do for fun

People go to the beach which is half an hour away or go to Hollywood. There is a mountain behind the school so people hike to the top for fun as well. There are always on campus events on the weekends too.

Food and Dining

Food is good but definitely not better than home cooked food of course. There are a lot of options like American food, Mexican, Japanese, Chinese. You get your food pretty quickly and almost everything is opened all the time.

Dorm Life

The dorms here are like fraternities and sororities. There is a brotherhood/sisterhood created between the people that live here and everyone is extremely close. All the dorms are fully furnished and there is a good amount of closet space.

Academic Rigor

Teachers expect a lot from you but they are willing to help you. They know you by name and want you to succeed in their class. It's not as rigorous as an ivy league but it is definitely worth your time.

Tips for prospective students

If you're looking for a Christian education then I would suggest APU. There is chapel 3 times a week and faith integration in every class that you take. If you are looking for a smaller community where most people know each other, I would suggest APU.

In three sentences

APU is the best school ever. The community here is unlike any other college. People here are loving and truly do care about you. If you want to grow as a person and in your faith, I would recommend APU.

Alexa Nicole from Upland, CA

02/10/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have campus safety literally patrolling the streets at night and during the day. They are everywhere and we are very close to the cities' police department. If you're out late and need campus safety to help you get back to your place you simply call them. If there is an emergency there are quick-access stations you could press a button and help would come.

Greek Life

We don't have much of a Greek life here except for those in pre-med. W have so many more things to do rather than regular greek-life activities. A few would be a girl-ask-guy dance in the fall and a guy-ask-girl dance in the spring. Venues are great. We also have this event called HvZ which is reminiscent of the Walking Dead series.

Clubs and Activities

Intramural sports, spoken word/poetry clubs, student leadership, many on-campus job opportunities, study abroad programs, a hip-hop team, Hawaiian dance clubs, research opportunities, school newspaper, school magazine, theatre, band and tons of opportunities for serving the community nearby and far away.

Great for these types of students

Every type of student will have an opportunity to shine here. If you are ready for academic rigor alongside building your spiritual relationship with Jesus then come on in. If you like connecting with others about their life stories there's plenty of that here! If anything I just stated is not your forte, still come because not everyone is the same! The school offers what I just mentioned but it's up to you whether you want to grow and be a little bit outside of your comfort zone.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

In the beginning of the year, the incoming students all go through an orientation week and during the last day, the President of the University brings out all incoming students, transfers and freshmen, into an open grassy space on west campus and we all light each others' candles and man, is that a sight.

Bang for the buck

APU is a private Christian university and on the price tag it's a pretty penny. Thing is, the price tag doesn't include the high-quality amount of education this place offers, the living spaces aren't crowded and financial aid is given to 91% of all students. Worth it? Absolutely.

What to do for fun

Honestly, we're close to LA, the beach and the mountains. There are plenty hiking trails and shopping centers around here. If you're a thrift shopper you could go around the city of Azusa. Gyms and plenty other sports facilities are accessible as well.

Food and Dining

We have a decent variety in campus and off campus. APU is divided into two campuses half a mile from one-another (but don't worry, we have 3-4 trolley's that bus you around for free!). The options on campus are sushi, chinese food, tacos, burritos, a place like Chipotle called Mexicali Grill, a salad bar, thin-crust pizzas made in front of you, grills in the center of east campus to make scrumptious burgers, a buffet, a coffee shop, sub sandwiches and other places where you could grab ready-made meals.

Dorm Life

There are all girls' dorms, all boys' dorms and co-ed dorms for freshmen. Sophomores have the opportunity to chose between living in an apartment, pool included or a mod and juniors and seniors live in condos. All are extremely close to the main campus-it's great. As for commuters, they have a cheaper parking permit fee, a great commuter community and there are several areas commuters can do all of their work at without having to leave campus.

Academic Rigor

College will be tough no matter where you go. The main thing about academic rigor is learning how to increase the amount of productivity within your regular weekday. If there is an hour and a half until your next class, study like you have a test for some of your other subjects.

Tips for prospective students

Learn how to study while you're in high school. Create a rhythm you're comfortable with on studying a little bit every day and stop being so angry with your guardians. Build your credit score when you get your first job and credit by paying off your credit card on time. Don't go through life trying to find your true love-they will come in time. Instead, take the time to find the people for your bridal party!

In three sentences

The university has a great community and with each class, each student has the opportunity to have lots of one-on-one contact with their professors during their office hours-you could even go to lunch with them! The professors are here to literally help you and will challenge you spiritually and academically to help you shape yourself for your independent life. The motto on campus is God first, meaning to incorporate Him in all of your endeavors because all you see now is temporary but in the end, all you must do is make the most of the time you have for amazing memories and experiences.

Nicholas from San Jose, CA

Ring by spring is basically something that goes on around campus, most couples or people get married by the time they leave!

What to do for fun

Hike the trail behind the campus, play sports on the new recreation field, runs or trips to the local donut shop or movie theater across the street.

Food and Dining

The food is getting better year by year and definitely worth the money, staff are always friendly.

Dorm Life

Awesome dorm life depending where you live and how open you are to new journeys with unsuspected people.

Academic Rigor

School is school as long as you keep trying hard and pushing yourself you will be fine, every aspect of school can be difficult but can be accomplished with hard work and focus.

Tips for prospective students

Have a open mind and heart because you don't know what can happen. Be open for anything including random relationships with people you might not otherwise create one with.

In three sentences

Great school with the absolute best christian community around. If you wanted to attend a school where the faculty/staff actually cared about your well being this is the place for sure. It is truly a school that pushes it's students to grow physically, mentally, and religiously.

Soledad from Barstow, CA

01/20/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Azusa is in the middle of almost everything, so finding something to do should not be that hard. You could go hang out in the mountains and end at the beach if you wanted to, without overwhelming amounts of travel.

Food and Dining

Food and dining has really improved over the years. APU has several options for students to try out.

Dorm Life

Personally my dorm life was not to my liking, but several people love their first year dorm experience.

Academic Rigor

The school is hard, but all given the time and depending on your major, there is no reason you should fail a class.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to study and be open to a wide variety of different, yet similar views on the idea of being a Christian. This college will not only challenge you academically, but it will also challenge your relationship with God.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University, a private Christian college, is centered on the community of Christ centered relationship. With these Christ centered relationships you also have wonderful opportunities to learn. Scholarship is a huge part of the APU community and personal one-on-one time with the professor is outstanding!

Isabella from West Covina, CA

01/17/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There are always campus safety student workers on the job, around the clock, there when you need them. Campus safety will drive you from campus to campus, at night, if you need them. We are very well protected.

Bang for the buck

APU is expensive. I won't lie. Make sure you can afford to come here before you commit to coming here. But, if you do decide to go to APU, I highly doubt that you will regret it. The professors are amazing, truly amazing. They are so wise and kind and helpful. The student body is great and the dorms and off-campus living areas are also very nice.

What to do for fun

There's beach trips, hiking (we're right next to mountains with famous trails), sports, dorm activities, etc. The weekends can be a little quiet sometimes, but during the week, everyone is on full blast.

Food and Dining

The food at APU is definitely better than the cafeteria food at your high school. APU has a wide selection of on-campus eateries and a pretty good balance between healthy and regular college food.

Dorm Life

Crazy, but in a good way. Everyone enjoys themselves and has a good time. Where you live on campus will have a big difference on your dorm life, but I just mean that every space is special in its own way.

Academic Rigor

So far, seems like what I expected for a college class, with respect to rigor. Study well and you should do fine.

Tips for prospective students

Prepare to be challenged. I do not just mean academically- classes so far seem to be of average college level rigor- but I mean spiritually. APU's faculty will expose you to new information, possibilities and interpretations. It can seem almost overwhelming at times, but I truly believe that in the end it will make your faith so much stronger than before. Also, I urge you to get involved and build those relationships. Oh, and study hard.

In three sentences

APU absolutely stresses community here, but the atmosphere of community generally feels so sincere that one could say that stressing it is only an acknowledgement of reality versus a forced obligation. The student body and faculty are exceedingly welcoming and loving. Even if you're an introvert like me, you will still find your exact right spot at the heart of APU.

Alyssa

APU ensures that their students are safe on campus and off campus (nearby). This does not mean that bad things don't happen, but they do their best to prevent things from happening.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

APU is a faith-based institution, therefore, there is chapel throughout the week that students must attend unless they have the requirement waived (being waived from chapel only lasts one semester; a student must renew their waiver every semester due to schedule changes). This isn't necessarily unusual, but to many of the other non-faith based institutions, it is unusual, or rather, uncommon.

Food and Dining

Food at APU, as a commuter, is pretty good. Having their food is good every once in a while for lunch or for dinner. The campus doesn't have a plethora of food choices, but there are sufficient food choices as well as places to eat. To make up for the lack of food choices though, are the restaurants in the complex that are across and down the street from the school--all within walking distance. There are many choices there from Asian, to American, to Mexican.

Dorm Life

I do not dorm, so I would not know what dorm life is like. The only thing I know is that the school prefers that incoming freshmen dorm. If a student decides otherwise, he must fill out a form asking to stay at home and give a reason as to why he cannot/would not like to dorm.

Academic Rigor

I rate the academic rigor for APU with three stars because it all depends on what class a student chooses and how he/she handles the subject. In general, from what I hear from other students, though, is half and half. Half of their classes were easy, half of their classes were hard. Keep in mind though, APU has smaller classes so students cannot get away with things as easily compared to classes that have more students.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready for a lot of faith integration in your daily attendance because APU requires their students to attend chapel, take Bible classes, and faith is integrated into every course from music to science. Before starting school, all incoming freshmen as well as transfers, go through a week-long orientation and are placed into groups called Alpha Groups. These groups are there so that freshmen and transfers may help one another out throughout the semester and maybe even throughout all four years. Don't be afraid to ask about anything because everyone on campus is genuinely so kind and so sweet. Freshmen must decide if they want to be a nursing major or not because nursing majors must apply the same time as the regular application time. It isn't like other colleges where a student can just join in the nursing program. APU ensures that their nursing students complete the program in 3 1/2 years, therefore, if a student wants to be a nurse, applies, and gets accepted, TAKE IT because there will be no second chance. (There will be, but there are certain steps to take to get there and it's just more difficult that way.)

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University, or APU, is a faith-based institution. APU is filled with so many friendly people, you can't look someone in the eye without getting a smile. The campus is small, meaning that the population is small so you will rarely, if ever, sign up for a classroom that contains more than forty students (it's difficult to even have a class of more than thirty).

Plenty of things to get into on campus, some things seem a bit immature.

Great for these types of students

People who are strong Christians, students looking for a closer relationship with God, kids curious about Christianity, and those who want to be surrounded by school work and religion, opposed to drinking and partying.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

My freshman year, there was a religious worship group that met Monday nights in front of my window. They would sing loudly, and it kept me up. There's a prayer chapel that is open all day and night, it's a great place to speak to God.

Bang for the buck

Not much school spirit on campus, and it sometimes looks like a ghost town on weekends.

What to do for fun

Go to the beach, Disneyland, Universal Studios, shopping, go for a swim, or hang out around campus. There isn't much to do but once you make good friends, you will have no trouble finding fun.

Food and Dining

The dining hall is not the best, it is not an ideal place to be if you're on a diet.

Dorm Life

Although some of the rules seem a bit ridiculous (not hanging certain posters or playing certain music,) it all comes with attending a Christian college. The RA's truly become close friends. My roommate who comes from a different walk of life from me has become my best friend.

Academic Rigor

The ministry classes are a bit tedious but the academic choruses challenge you to learn, and use the knowledge you gain everyday in life.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to attend three chapels every week, you will find people from all walks of life here. Although most people are strong in their faith, anybody can feel at home here.

In three sentences

The community is very strong. Students can be a little judgmental, but they're mostly amazing people. The perfect place to spiritually find yourself.

Kimberly from Pico Rivera, CA

01/03/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

Azusa pretty much has everything locally or within the Los Angeles County. Ethnic food, organic food, vegetarian dining. Southern Cali lacks nothing. If you have a sweet tooth, there are plenty of delicious options or late night snacking opportunities! It's even more fun with friends!

Dorm Life

Dorm life is always buzzing. You get to meet so many people and eventually find those who like to do the same things you do. There is always something going on and a lot of activities. Adventure is out there at Azusa, I promise!

Academic Rigor

Departments and professors really think through curriculum and class content before putting it out there. Everyone really makes themselves available outside of class for students and there are plenty of other resources to help you through anything tough subjects.

In three sentences

Honestly would choose Azusa Pacific all over again if I had to. Such a great environment when you walk on campus. Friendly safety officers, people studying in the coffee shop or meeting up with professors or students. Not just that but academic life is good too because you get to meet people in your field who are passionate about the same things!

Anonymous

They have many club opportunities and their study abroad opportunities are amazing.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students that want a more unique college experience. It's also great for those that really want to study abroad while their at school because the university offers such a wide variety of programs and really encourages their students to go abroad.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The amphitheater was my favorite place to hangout, study, or just reflect on campus. It's a neat place covered with trees and a turtle pond at the bottom.

Bang for the buck

What Azusa Pacific University has to offer as a whole I feel like will set me up for success for my future. Although, it is not a school that I would recommend for people that want a super traditional college experience.

What to do for fun

If you have a car everything in the LA area to the beach is about a 30 minute drive. If you don't have a car the school makes an effort to put on different functions every week.

Food and Dining

They have a good selection of food but the quality of food is not the healthiest.

Dorm Life

I had a great dorm experience. It was a great way to get to know people and made me feel involved in the school.

Academic Rigor

I am in the Honors Program and definitely feel like the University has excellent professors that know how to push their students as well as help them succeed. I also think the professors are very personable and easy to approach outside of the classroom. I love the smaller class sizes and have many classes where everyone is expected to be involved and participate in class discussions.

Tips for prospective students

The school is really great with communicating and answering questions for prospective students, so don't be afraid to call.

In three sentences

I give Azusa Pacific University overall 4 1/2 stars. It has many unique programs, excellent professors, and has a huge emphasis on community. I recommend this school for anyone interested in a Liberal Arts education and have never heard one bad remark about this school.

Katelynn from Placentia, CA

Azusa is not the safest area, but our campus is always patrolled and you would never guess that anything went down around the city because campus safety does such a great job.

Greek Life

not here!

Bang for the buck

It is a really expensive school but the financial aid department works really well with each student, but I would suggest only going here if you get a scholarship because the school is pretty price. Really you are paying to graduate on time with a degree and a really good college experience.

What to do for fun

Disneyland! Get a Disney pass because it is a great thing to do when you want to get off campus. The beach and mountains are also 45 minutes or less away. My friends and I love to hike around the area on trails and for other nerds, their is a great comic shop right down the road.

Food and Dining

Skip out on the caf (1899 dining hall) it ruins your stomach, but the west campus eating areas are way better. Their is two sandwich shops, a sushi place, pizza place, fast food type place, BBQ stand, Mexican restaurant, coffee shop, and west campus cafeteria on campus.

Dorm Life

The on campus housing is nice especially the University Village which is offered only for upper class men. For freshmen, Trinity is the nicest and newest dorm, Adams and Smith are all girl and all boy dorms that focus on togetherness, but are the oldest dorms on campus (i lived in Adams), Engstrom is know as the quiet dorm where the smart people live because not much happens in their except for studying.

Academic Rigor

The professors here are great, just make sure you check Rate My Professor! Some of the required bible classes are tough but they are also very informational.

Tips for prospective students

We are required to go to chapel 3 times a week and some of the school rules are hard for people to follow. The on campus housing is nice especially the University Village which is offered only for upper class men. For freshmen, Trinity is the nicest and newest dorm, Adams and Smith are all girl and all boy dorms that focus on togetherness, but are the oldest dorms on campus (i lived in Adams), Engstrom is know as the quiet dorm where the smart people live because not much happens in their except for studying.

In three sentences

APU is the best school for me and is small enough to get classes but large enough to not feel like high school. It is really easy to graduate on time or even early because of all the class availability. The professors really care about each student and you really can feel the sense of community the APU creates.

...

12/18/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Hiking the trial up to the A in the Azusa mountains, the trip up there is capped off by a very special tradition ;). Some pranks are associated with Smith Hall, that involves the borrowing, of a certain Christmas decoration on one of the other dorm buildings. Other traditions involve roofing and tunneling.

What to do for fun

For freshman, I pray you get an Alpha Group that stays together. Alpha Groups are the freshman's first clique on campus, randomly selected students(other freshmen) with a Leader (generally a sophomore), that will guide you through your fist semester. Alpha Group can be hit or miss, my Alpha Group is very close and we hang out together even though Alpha Groups are officially over ( they only last through the first semester). Others barely got together in during mandatory events. Overall your Alpha Group and your Hall will decide what you do for fun your first semester. After that your on your own!

Food and Dining

There is not much variety, although the food that is available is quite decent. Gets old fast and soon getting food becomes another humdrum routine. I usually wear a place out and then move on. The cycle keeps things new when the routine gets old.

Dorm Life

Depending on which dorm you get, that will ultimately decide how your freshman year of college pans out. There are 4 dorm halls on campus: Smith (all guys), Adams (all girls), Trinity and Engstrom are mixed by floor. If you are looking for the tight nit same gender bond, Adams and Smith will be your best bet. I am a resident in Smith, and from the moment I moved in you could sense the bother hood, and openness of everyone staying there. Smith was not my first choice, I wanted to live in Trinity, it is the newest and aesthetically built of the dorms, but from what I hear, the bother hood bond isn't strong and the community is not as tight nit. A problem peculiar to Smith Hall is the noise, music blasting (I sometimes add to this problem), and late night hangouts are the trade mark of Smith, don't plan any morning classes if you get Smith.

Academic Rigor

My first semester consisted of all gen. ed. classes, as you will get at any university. The Bible classes specific to APU are deemed the toughest in your course load(although I did not see it this way). Professors will help you as much as you are willing to help yourself, always work, but mostly all of the work will be interesting instead of busy work. If you stay on top of the syllabi, you will do just fine in your general ed courses, no hand out grades are given ( except the pe courses, easy A).

Tips for prospective students

If looking for a Christian University that is on fire about being the salt and light to the world, you might want to keep looking. Although APU is a christian university, the only evidence of this outside the classroom is chapel and the prayer chapels. If looking for a school that will challenge you in many ways, particularly to stand out, this university is for you.

In three sentences

Excellent faculty and staff that genuinely are interested in seeing character as well as academic growth in the students. Close community that can seem overwhelming at times, but also needed in times of trouble. Christian flavor to most classes depending on the professor, chapel requirements are the major drag.

Leslie from Corona, CA

11/26/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

They are constantly watching over us and making sure the campus is safe. If you need an escort to your car, call up campus safety and they'll send and they'll send a guard over. They perform surprise drills to make sure we understand what to do in case of an emergency. And they really care about the well being of the students, posting up news of suspicious events etc.

Bang for the buck

The tuition may seem a bit much, but the school provides the student with a grant and if you have good grades, even a scholarship. For myself, personally, I was going to attend a UC school, but the tuition for APU came out to be cheaper than the expenses then that of a UC.

What to do for fun

There are so many events that occur. You can attend football games with your friends, or any sports for that matter, there are organized meetings for people to hang out. Dances for everyone, as long as you get your ticket before they're sold out! Also, you can play intramural sports like soccer, dodgeball, and so forth.

Food and Dining

There may be some days where I question what the cafeteria is feeding us, but every other day it's amazing!!! It beats a high school lunch any day. You swipe your meal card and enjoy yummy food and you can go for seconds, and even thirds if you feel like it. Also, Heritage hall has a wide variety to choose from. If you feel like pizza, burgers, Chinese, sub sandwiches, whatever, go and eat at Heritage. Also, Mexicali has Mexican food and big breakfast burritos i suggest you try out.

Dorm Life

Dorming you build a strong bond with your hall and people leave there doors open free for you to enjoy their company. Your roommates become your best friends almost and in all honesty everyone gets along fairly well.

Academic Rigor

It's not horrible when it comes to attending APU. I can ask my teachers what I need to work on and they have office hour they you can drop by and talk to them. If you can't stop by, no worries. Professors are very good about emailing back quickly. Also, the campus has many resources. There is a math tutoring center and writing center and there are libraries for nice study sessions. It's easy to stay focus as long as you have the drive, and if you do, the course won't feel rigorous.

Tips for prospective students

Have fun, but manage your time well. I'm not saying don't get involved, this is the perfect place to get involved! Just make sure to remember that you're here for your education. Remember to build relationships with your professors! They work here because they believe in the strength of having a relationship and helping you to succeed in their classes. They are more than happy to address any questions. Choose APU!

In three sentences

Overall, this school is a great leaning environment. As a freshman not knowing what to expect, it's wonderful having classes with only 40 students and getting to know my professors on a personal level. The main focuses are to help bring the community together, building a strong relationship with God, and bringing up a generation of the futures educators and problem solvers.

Rachel from Beaverton, OR

11/07/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Azusa is not a safe city once you are off campus but the Campus Safety team is amazing. They monitor the surrounding area 24/7 and work closely with the Azusa Police Department. Call anytime of night for a ride between campuses or to home.

Greek Life

There is no Greek Life at APU but the dorms and living areas are much like it.

Great for these types of students

Outgoing and relational

Food and Dining

There are tons of eating venues on campus, 11 to be exact. A meal plan is required your freshman year, and trust me you'll be sick of it by then. There are lots of restaurants across the street from campus: McDonald's, Burger King, Chick Fil A, Jack in the Box, Applebees, Jamba Juice, Panda Express, The Habit and Starbucks.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great. Each living area (the dorms, modulars, apartments, village) are all each their own family. Halls are very sorority/frat-like in a good way.

Academic Rigor

APU is challenging academically and spiritually. Your classes will really make you think and challenge everything you've learned.

Tips for prospective students

Don't become hung up on GPA and test scores. APU looks at you as a whole person. Your reference and admission essay are important and can be the deciding factor on your admission decision.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific can be summed up in one word: Community. While academically rigorous, no school can compare to the community you will experience at APU. You will gain lasting personal and work place relationships

Hannah from Azusa, CA

Campus safety does a great job of keeping the campus safe. It even employs students as workers, and really makes me feel safe, even when I'm walking back from work at 1 a.m. Still, be careful though!

Greek Life

Nothing

Clubs and Activities

There are various leadership groups, community planning, and sports clubs to join. Plenty of on-campus events are always occurring, and there's a lot of job/major-related fairs. There's also student government councils, school newspaper employment opportunities, and on-campus counselors and women's advocate groups/

Great for these types of students

Great for students who want to be actively involved, participate in lots of fun events, and seek God above everything else!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The rose garden is beautiful and is said to be where relationships are made or broken. Our school has a saying ring before spring, meaning that a lot of people find their soul mate here before springtime. There's a lot of other odd but fun little events going on, such as the little prayer chapel, located by the bridge behind Smith Hall, and a secret floor in the library.

Bang for the buck

This school is quite expensive. However, while it is quite pricy, the education here is amazing and you can truly see that the school continues to stick to its core principles through everything. Getting aid can be tricky, but if you have the money, it's worth it.

What to do for fun

The weekends can be a little slow, but football games are really fun to go to with friends on Saturday nights, and there's a lot going on Friday nights. Sometimes they have an occasional dance or a battle of the bands or just fun beach volleyball. During the week, there are a variety of church services to go to, or study groups to attend. You can also go to student film screenings and art exhibits, musicals, and sporting events.

Food and Dining

The food in the cafeteria isn't that great, I won't lie. But the other places on campus, where you can use your meal plans, are pretty good. Mexicali was my favorite, and I usually ate there once a day. The Den is good, though service can be a bit slow depending on when you go.

Dorm Life

Living in the dorms has been a phenomenal experience for me! I've met so many great people here, and my R.A. is awesome and always has something going on to encourage hall bonding. I love it To be honest, my roommate and I didn't get along the best our second semester, but that could happen anywhere, and most people enjoyed their roommates.

Academic Rigor

Some days are more busy than others, but if you manage your time effectively and get your work done on time, life will go a lot smoother. The classes definitely challenge you to form your own thoughts and opinions and defend them, but they're not incredibly difficult.

Tips for prospective students

Keep an open mind when visiting colleges. Just because this school was the perfect fit for me doesn't mean it will be for you, but it might be. I know this path I took was what was best, and it may be for you too!

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific is truly my home. When all other campuses made me feel alienated and like a typical high school senior when I would visit their institution, the second I walked onto APU's campus, I knew this was where I was meant to be. The people here are great, the faculty and staff really care about your education, and there's so much to do!

Victoria from Azusa, CA

08/23/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

Every year, APU finds a way to expand and better the quality of food this campus provides. They hear the needs of what the students want and come up with ways to provide solutions to those needs. Although the chinese food on campus tastes nothing like panda express and the mexicali grill can not be compared to chipotle, APU is attempting to imitate the favorite food selections of the students. They have also made it possible for students to use their meal plan at one of the nearby fast food places.

Dorm Life

There are many activities at APU that allows its residences to become acquainted with one another. There is always something taking place whether that be activities with hall mates or a movie in the lawn for apartment residents. Dorm life is also enjoyable because if there is an altercation (which is rare), the RAs know how to handle situations and keep things running smoothly.

Academic Rigor

APU provides well qualified professors as well a good amount of homework which pertains to the curriculum. If some cases, there are professors that provide more than enough homework which does not allow students enough time to complete the set amount of work as well as the work given by the other professors.

Maged from Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

I love watch movies to go inside different world and I like to hang out with friends and discover new places.

Food and Dining

I don't try it yet, but I have friends in the school told me it is really good.

Dorm Life

I never lived in dorm, but my friend live in Azusa university dorm and she love it.

Academic Rigor

Azusa Pacific university is a great school and i like the academic system that what make its name good between the universities.

Tips for prospective students

Check this school requirement and don't waste your time in classes you will never need it, and you will never regret when you be part of their team.

In three sentences

This is a great school. I really feel safe about my education future because people work over there so honest and love to help all student to success. I think that I will learn a lot for my life in school not just nursing education only.

Meredith from CA

07/20/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

The quality of the food is, in all honesty, not great, but the wide variety and the ease of accessibility at least in part make up for it. There are several places to eat on campus and many options, from sushi to burgers to Mexican food to pizza, and they are open during the day and are usually easy to get to.

Dorm Life

Residential life is one of the most important components of college, and APU does not disappoint. Living on-campus does not simply mean that one is conveniently close to classes; instead, it means that there is a strong community that encourages and builds you up as you go through the school year. RAs plan activities and events for these reasons, and some of the closest friends you will make are those that are part of this incredible community.

Academic Rigor

Academia at APU is certainly a challenge, but it is also a place where students are encouraged to seek their own answers and solutions and ask their own questions. Within the challenging material is the opportunity to form your own opinions and step out of your comfort zone at the same time.

Tips for prospective students

APU is the perfect school for the student who is looking to be pushed out of his or her comfort zone and yet still have a place to call home. Students who are looking at APU's programs ought to speak to faculty and current students in the program to get a well-rounded view. In addition, APU is one of the greatest places to meet God where you are.

In three sentences

APU's environment is in every way a second home. Students and faculty are friendly, welcoming, and encouraging, and the fact that its programs are some of the best in the nation are a bonus. One cannot walk down Cougar Walk without seeing a smile and a wave from someone else, even if it is a complete stranger, and God is present but not overbearing in every area of on-campus life.

Kathryn from Placerville, CA

07/13/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

APU is a Christian Non-Denominational University, whether you are curious about Christianity or a strong believer, APU has many opportunities to grow and get involved. If you have no interest in pursuing Christianity, you will still have no problem making friends, but you might not like going to chapel three times a week...

What to do for fun

In less than an hour you could be surfing at the beach or snowboarding in the mountains. And even closer is Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, and the Angeles National Forest. If you are feeling adventurous there are an unlimited amount of things to do in LA and if you just wanna hang out on campus there might be an event put on by communiversity!

Food and Dining

There are so many places to eat at APU and your meal card can be used at all of them. With a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you might find it hard to decide where to eat.

Dorm Life

My freshman year at APU may have been the best year of my life, I love the community that comes with living in the dorms and all of the opportunities to make new friends. I am still best friends with my roommate and 6 of the other girls I met on my hall freshman year! APU also has really great living arrangements for sophomores and upperclassmen, they offer on-campus apartments which give you the feel of being on your own while still surrounded by the APU community.

Academic Rigor

Like any school, some majors are more intense than others. As long as you take the time to do your homework and pay attention during lectures, you definitely won't end up a college drop out!

Tips for prospective students

Attend an All-Access weekend at APU to see the beautiful campus and experience student life.

Very good for school food. The cafeteria can sometimes be a bit hit and miss but there's always something good available. There are a number of places to eat on both campuses. Mexicali, The Den (pizza and burgers), BBQ, the coffee shop and the Caf ( all you can eat salad bar, deserts, home-style cooking and fresh waffles) are on East. Sushi bar, Sam's Subs ( sandwiches), Asian food, another coffee shop and classic diner fare are available on West. I love to Sushi bento box, the yogurt parfaits and the Quickimart soups. Blended Naked smoothies and milk tea with bolba are also campus favorites.

Dorm Life

I began halfway through the year so I didn't really connect with my dorm and most of the dorm events were over. Trinity has the newest rooms for Freshmen but the Adams and Smith houses seemed to have a closer community. There are a number of hall events throughout the year and it's your commitment to attending those events which really determine how close you are with your dorm.

Academic Rigor

The difficulty of the class really depends on the professor so ask around before registering for a class. I loved the Honors class I took last semester because it was discussion based and had about the same work load as some of my other classes. All the professors make an effort to get there students to think through their work and really consider the subject. Some classes give options for hands-on or creative assignments.

Tips for prospective students

You have to go three chapels a week so be sure to go to Kaleo and liturgical which are in the evening. They're really great and you can sleep in Friday morning. Be sure to get there. Few minutes early to get a chapel card. The trolleys are crowded. Bring a scooter or skateboard to get around campus. Be sure to say Hello at the international student center or chapel... They welcome all internationally minded students and they're really nice :) Try the BBQ on east campus.

In three sentences

APU is very welcoming because of it's warm and safe atmosphere. It has something for everyone, sports, sciences, arts, film, global studies and ethnic studies.... This means that there is a diverse campus community and a plethora of extra-curriculum/social activities.

Emma from Cypress, CA

Join a music group, play at the new beach volleyball and basketball courts, attend free sporting events, join intramural sports, hang out with your living area or just hang out with your friends.

Food and Dining

APU's cafeteria is not the best food place, but APU has many other food places to choose from on both campuses. My favorite is Sam's Sub. With one of your meals on the meal plan, you get a 7 inch sub, 2 sides, and a 21 oz drink. Delicious! (I think better than Subway)

Dorm Life

APU is one of the only colleges that I know of that you live in dorms Freshman year and then move to apartments sophomore and junior year.

Academic Rigor

APU strives to be a University that challenges their students in every aspect, spiritually and academically.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that you apply for many scholarships as APU raises their price every year. Get involved in clubs, music groups, organizations, your major's department.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University has a diverse population of students who are mostly Christian. It is a great place to grow in your relationship with the Lord and also pursue your academic dreams. There are many opportunities for community and fellowship with students on the campus.

Anonymous

I love how the campus is surrounded by a bunch of restaurants of different tastes. Most definitely something to consider when going to this college.

Dorm Life

There are dorms on campus and apartments just for APU students right across the street, so there are several housing options to choose from.

Academic Rigor

There is something for everyone; there are pre-professional majors for those wanting to go into the medical field, there are art majors, majors in business and communications, music, math, science, and history, as well as theology, theater and teaching.

In three sentences

The campus is quiet and beautiful, which is something I love in a school. The students on campus are very helpful in answering the questions I had about the school. I also like how everyone on campus is very friendly and made me feel welcome on my visit.

While not the best I have ever had, Hospitality services has certainly been stepping it up in recent years.

Dorm Life

One of Azusa Pacific's best qualities is the dorm life. The community is fantastic.

Academic Rigor

You are able to find the easy teachers and skate through your undergraduate career, but there are legitimately difficult professors that will challenge you.

Tips for prospective students

Take difficult courses, as they are rewarding even if your GPA suffers.

In three sentences

The professors here care and the class sizes are small so you can get to know your professors really well. Tuition is expensive, but many if not all are given financial aid. Dive deep into your major/minor or else you can breeze through classes and not actually attend college.

Cleotilde from NORTHRIDGE, CA

I imagine there are tons to do here, however I went to college just for class and to study.

Food and Dining

It was excellent dinning.

Dorm Life

I am not sure in this area. However, the dorms looked safe and clean.

Academic Rigor

It was pretty difficult since I was working full time. However, the knowledge that I gained was more than worth while.

Tips for prospective students

Do not be afraid to ask questions. Every one and anyone is here to make your college experience as simple as possible.

In three sentences

This college made it easier for me to go back to school after being out of school a few years. They helped in managing school and a full time job. Everyone was helpful and encouraging in the success of my education.

My friends from other colleges are so disappointed with their meal plans. I'd eat here my whole life if I could. Fantastic.

Dorm Life

Smith Hall, although stinky, is the best place for any 18 year old dude on the planet!

Academic Rigor

I'm in nursing, which I wouldn't recommend if you want to goof off. I spend my weekends either surfing or in the library. Sometimes both on the same day.

Tips for prospective students

Pack light, the weather is awesome! No need for facebook to connect, just look up, friends are waiting for you!

In three sentences

Azusa cares about my education and who I am becoming as a person. The opportunity to experience a variety of leadership activities is endless. I am building a network of friends and support that will last a lifetime.

Erica from Torrance, CA

If you want to have a quiet place to study or you like to hit up the clubs, this offers it all.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Prayer chapels are everywhere and there is a rose garden for couples wishing to define the relationship, or have a dtr.

Bang for the buck

Apu is really expensive.

What to do for fun

There is a theater right next to campus and hiking all around.

Food and Dining

While the cafeteria may not be the best, there are a lot of other eating options on campus.

Dorm Life

There are so many activities for the halls and if you get an ra as good as mine, you will always find time to bond wit your hall.

Academic Rigor

This school puts a lot of emphasis on leadership, not academic vigor. Unless you are a science or business major, that is. Azusa emphasises internships and real world experiences.

Tips for prospective students

If you come for a preview weekend, know that the cafeteria food is not that good normally. The more you put in, the more you get out so invest in your hall, your club, ypur sport or whatever. Dont judge people because they will surprise you for the better.

In three sentences

This school strives to create every type of diversity. With the optimal location between the snow and the ocean right up against the mountains, it is the perfect place to meet new friends. It is an experience you don't want to miss out on.

Monique from Medford, OR

03/18/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is really safe. The campus safety team is on watch 24 hours a day and keeps everyone up to date on any kind of suspicious activity that occurs around the school. I have never felt unsafe here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Azusa is a split campus. The school has been growing a ton in the last several years which caused the school to have to expand. The older east side of campus has all of the residential areas, some food options, and half of the classrooms. The west campus is 3/4 of a mile down the road and has a large gym, a lot of classrooms, food places, and the bookstore. There's a trolley system that runs all day between campuses but it is also a great walk. Many people ride bikes, scooters, and long boards to class.

What to do for fun

Azusa is close to pretty much anything. If you like hiking there's several trails right by the school. There's also several malls nearby. Disneyland is about 30 minutes away and the beach is about 45 minutes away.

Food and Dining

APU has a lot of food options. There's no food place that had bad food. The best and most popular food options are the mexican food and the sandwich place which is way better than subway. There's also a sushi place and two coffee shops. There's a certain meal plan required freshman year that includes meals, that can be used at every food location and usually include a main food item, a drink, and sides, and dining dollars which can be used to buy anything you want from all of the places.

Dorm Life

At APU you live in the dorms freshman year. This is a great community and you will probably make your closest friends with the people who live near you. There are a lot of fun events that the resident directors put together. After freshman year the school has various on-campus apartments available to live in.

Academic Rigor

The classes are taught by excellent teachers who are passionate about what they teach. Not every teacher is perfect but I have many many great professors. They really care about you as a person and I've been to a few of my professor's homes. The classes are difficult but you will learn a lot. When you graduate you will come out a well rounded individual.

Tips for prospective students

Come visit the school! I only visited in the summer before I came but visiting during the school year would have been helpful. If you're interested in nursing, definitely make APU of your top choices because the nursing program admits you freshman year and you will be in the hospital by your second or third semester.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific is a great school because of the community, the academics, and the location. You get the feel of southern California without being in the big city. The school itself is one of the largest private schools in the region but it is still focused on creating a tight knit community, and the academics are excellent.

Alison from Azusa, CA

Surrounding area is known for gang violence, but students are always unharmed and campus safety handles every situation carefully.

Bang for the buck

More expensive than it should be

What to do for fun

The school host events every so often. This weekend we had a color run followed b a county fair complete with a petting zoo and ferris wheel. This weekend we also had a formal dance at club nokia. We know how to have fun without getting out of hand.

Food and Dining

Some days it's good, some days it's inedible. But what do you expect from student prepared food? There are good things to eat on campus if you are patient to find them.

Dorm Life

Some love it, some hate it. It depends on the type of person you are though. As far as dorms go, our facilities are fairly nice.

Academic Rigor

The hardest classes I've taken here were ones that I was trying to force myself into as a major. The upper divisions are tough, but if you have a passion for what you are learning it makes the rigor calmer.

Tips for prospective students

write your essay with your heart. if your grades aren't too elevated, the admissions staff loves to see intelligence in the form of something other than scores.

In three sentences

Great school! Not impossibly challenging academically, but you still learn a lot here. We just joined the NCAA, so we're even more athletically involved that some of the big name schools who don't even have football programs.

Tiara from Adelanto, CA

The campus safety here is not only inside the school on the campus, but on the streets surrounding the school. It really creates a safe feeling environment when walking anywhere near the school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is an awesome event called the Candella that freshman take part in during orientation. It is amazing and it shows how we all need each other to do Gods will. It was a great eye opener; I would say that every person at least one time in there life should experience this amazing opportunity.

Bang for the buck

Chapel is a requirement but it isn't like church. They explain that, but Ive found that their requirements of schooling, Chapel, Community service there seems to be a struggle to fit in church services. And if you don't do all three of these requirements then you will not graduate.

What to do for fun

There is a center where you can go play basketball, pool, and other things like that, located in an inside center for students. Then outside there are sand volleyball courts, and basketball courts. Other than that I think any other fun activites would have to be found off campus.

Food and Dining

They have place to eat like an off brand Chipotle, off brand Pizza Hut, and an off brand Panda express. The food here is great to begin with but after eating the same thing for so long, it doesn't taste too good anymore. However, breakfast in the dining hall is always good;they have many different options.

Dorm Life

We are split into halls and have many hall events. The people in the dorms are so nice. The cleaning lady keeps the bathrooms clean and is very kind hearted and sociable.

Academic Rigor

Each academic class by itself isn't too hard to begin with. As the level of difficulty increases, balance becomes the true test. The homework load for some classes will be light depending on your teacher.

Tips for prospective students

The work load is about 16 credits per semester in order to graduate in four years. Chapel attendance doesn't sound difficult at first but as time goes by it gets harder so but as long as you keep your priorities straight, you'll be alright. Make sure you stay focused and enjoy yourself.

In three sentences

The people here are kind, helpful, and sincere.The staff and teachers care about the students and try their best to help them to the best of their ability. This school truly has a Christian environment and strong sense of worship.

Joshua from Los Angeles, CA

We have an excellent Campus Safety Department on campus which is dedicated to keeping its students safe. They do an excellent job. I have never felt in danger of anything but having too much fun!

Greek Life

While there are academic societies, there are no sororities on campus. Although, I have never heard anyone complain about the fact here. Dorms freshman year and off campus housing the other 3 years remain very popular.

Clubs and Activities

Intramural sports and such activities are very popular on campus. In addition, many clubs and groups meet weekly to join in some shared passion.

Great for these types of students

Positive, fun, ambitious, cynical. There is a niche for anyone at APU.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The rose garden is the place to go if you are hoping to make things official with someone of the opposite gender. Many relationships have been born within that beautiful garden.

Bang for the buck

The all around APU experience is well worth the cost of attendance. You will leave having a better idea of what you want to do with your life, as well as a great education and many dear friends.

What to do for fun

There are many hiking trails nearby as well as a fairly close proximity to Los Angeles and the beach. The campus is very pretty and lively, offering diversion at any time.

Food and Dining

There are some delicious on campus dining venues. While there are less options during the weekend, it is worth it for what is available during the week.

Dorm Life

There are great people in the dorms. There is always someone up doing something around the dorms, but still enough space to get some quiet rest.

Academic Rigor

Challenging classes with great teacher. Prepare to think.

Tips for prospective students

If you are looking for a friendly school with smaller classes, apply to APU. There are no teacher's aides teaching classes here. You get to know your professors and classes well.

In three sentences

The school has an extremely friendly and open environment. Classes are intimate and challenging, with professors that genuinely care about their students. This school has recently joined the NCAA, and has other exciting plans in its future!

Rhiannon from Oceanside, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

I have a friend on campus safety and honestly, it is one of the safest campus's and city's in the south California area.

Clubs and Activities

Depending how much you get involved, with Choir and student government I will be so busy next year, but I've already met with my counselors talking about missionary trips during the school breaks both during the school year and summer. If you are able bodied and willing, there is always a reason to be busy and happy.

Great for these types of students

Academic and motivated, but mostly. You need to have a love for God or a willingness to grow into that Love. You don't have to be perfect, but you need to be able to be malleable and work towards becoming more like Christ.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The most amazing tradition in the lighting of the candle the very last night before classes start as freshman begin the 4 year journey at APU.

Bang for the buck

It costs a lot yes, but it honestly is worth it. I've known so many APU Alumni that have had their lives changed by the impact which APU and their influence has had.

What to do for fun

Sports, excersise, fool around with friends, go shopping, prayer and worship sessions, studies and so much more.

Food and Dining

Food is okay, Cafe is good depending on the day, but Mexicali is amazing.

Dorm Life

I can see my brother, having such great community and safe experiences on campus, being involved with ROTC and academics he has the opportunity to meet all sorts of people and is able to enjoy his college experience.

Academic Rigor

Haven't been on campus yet, but my friends tell me it is challenging but not overwhelming. ITs manageable.

Tips for prospective students

Go to a chapel. Go to worship, and go to a weekend on campus, because money is not an obstacle and it shouldn't prevent anyone from having the best college experience possible.

In three sentences

A Beautiful, thriving, Godly campus that brings light, joy and happiness to my heart as I am filled with an overwhelming sense of calm each time I walk onto campus. The lustrous green surrounding, choir music in the background, and prayer chapel bring peace, and the men and women ride their beach cruisers around campus enjoying the views and cool breeze. The surrounding hills and mountains add to the sense of security and the knowledge that although this university is experienced and forward thinking with their education program, leading the hearts of young generations to Christ our Father, is always their main goal.

Lisa from Apple Valley, CA

01/12/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Students get regular alerts as to threats to safety and ways to keep safe.

Great for these types of students

Great for students fresh out of high school who need a transition away from the parents. Great for independent students. And great for older students who seek an advanced degree or a bachelor's degree.

Bang for the buck

A degree from APU is respected. It's a private university, so it's expensive. But the student financial services strive to help its students find the funds necessary to attend.

What to do for fun

The university offers many opportunities for fun in planned events. Being a Christian university, short-term mission trips are available which are fun and deeply enriching.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria provides plenty of good food, and there are plenty of alternative options within walking distance of the school.

Dorm Life

As a Christian school there are safety factors built in and there is a focus on everyone being connected. I met my best friend of 20 years in the dorms. She was my next-door neighbor.

Academic Rigor

The accelerated nursing program is the hardest thing I've ever done. There is more work assigned than there is time to do it. But at the end, I will have an excellent skill that can be counted on.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that if you're transferring from another college that the classes that you take before transferring articulate specifically to the university to which you're transferring. APU is happy to help its prospective students plan a course of study that will articulate into its own program, so the best thing to do is ask a lot of questions.

In three sentences

It'a refreshing to be in a university where the faculty actually seems glad the students are there. This university strives for excellence in educating its students and preparing them to be excellent in their fields and service-minded. APU is a supportive community environment that values it's students, faculty, and surrounding community.

Kalina from San Diego, CA

Campus Safety employees are constantly on patrol. I feel safe walking within the near vicinity of the school even at night.

Greek Life

There are no fraternities or sororities.

Bang for the buck

APU is well worth the price! The community and academics are integrated so well that it is just such a fun and great place to be!

What to do for fun

There's a movie theater right across the street, but other than that, there's not much to do off campus! It would be easier to have fun with a car on campus. There is a lot do like 30 mins away driving.

Food and Dining

The dining hall is not my favorite.... I'm not a vegetarian, but I like to eat healthy and there's not many healthy/vegetarian options. However, the dining hall isn't the only eating place. The cool thing about APU is that they have a ton of eating options like Chipotle-esque food, sushi, etc.

Dorm Life

Freshman dorms aren't the greatest. Don't get Adams! It's a little run down and an all girl dorm. Other than that, the RAs are all really great and the halls put on tons of events for the students. It's all a part of the Community cornerstone.

Academic Rigor

So far, I have found that my classes are challenging, but very worth it. In every class, I have learned something new. All the teachers are extremely helpful and interested in having a personal relationship with their students.

Tips for prospective students

Don't apply to APU if you don't want to be in a Christian setting. All the classes partake in faith integration and their is a mandatory chapel requirement of three times a week.

In three sentences

APU is summed up completely in it's four cornerstones: Christ, Scholarship, Community, and Service. It's an amazing school academically and spiritually. Choose APU if you want your higher education to mean more than just a degree; at APU, it also means growing as a whole person.

Hannah from Springfield, OR

Campus safety is always available and safety has never been an issue in my experience.

Greek Life

There is no greek life on campus.

Clubs and Activities

There is a wide variety of clubs, athletic intramural teams, dance teams and so so much more!

Great for these types of students

Great for any type of student as long as they are willing and wanting to delve further in their relationship with Christ. Campus is full of friendly, fun-loving, energetic people ready to have a good time.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is an amazing hike up to the Azusa A, where there is a cross that looks over all of the city including LA! There are also turtle ponds and quiet peaceful and beautiful study areas.

Bang for the buck

This is an expensive institution but for the quality of education and experience you receive I believe it is completely worth it!

What to do for fun

Azusa puts on so many events for students including music performances, dances and more! In addition, the beach and everything LA has to offer are only 35 minutes away!

Food and Dining

Yummy!

Academic Rigor

Get ready to be challenged intellectually and spiritually!

Tips for prospective students

Prospective students be ready to work hard! Classes are tough but teachers are amazing and loving. Also be ready to grow in your faith and be a part of an incredible Christian environment.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific is a University that offers rigorous classes and world class teachers. The community life is amazing and supportive. I would recommend everyone come to look at this spectacular school!

James from Las Vegas, NV

01/01/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus safety, with all honesty, is not quite what I would call up to par. The gate security seems to let people in unconditionally, and it seems anybody can wander on campus. When I explored campus in late hours immediately before and after midnight, it seems as though security is nowhere to be found. I feel this should be addressed, before someone else realizes this vulnerability with malicious intent.

Clubs and Activities

With the amount of clubs and activities ranging from intramurals to ethnic organizations, it's fairly impossible to get bored. It's somewhat harder to decide what to do rather than actually finding something to do.

Great for these types of students

APU is great for students looking to find themselves in their faith. Those who are broken will find others like them who will listen to their life stories. Those of every background, every interest, and every status will find themselves at home.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every Fall, the APU freshman gather and light candles in a large vigil.

Bang for the buck

No amount of money will pay for the valuable experience, discipline, and high academic expectations at APU. They want you to attend, and will gladly lend a helping hand in the form of aid to attend. I don't feel I could get the same community, academics, and atmosphere in the same package at any other university.

What to do for fun

There always something to do, from hikes to pick-up games to a night on the town, it's simple as reading a bulletin. Otherwise, just ask around and get something together yourself.

Food and Dining

Going hungry should never be an option at APU. With seven different places to eat, and many places off-campus to dine it's not very hard to find something to eat. However, the food eventually becomes repetitive, and it is quite difficult to eat healthy especially with a busy schedule.

Dorm Life

The dorm experience is a necessary and fun part of the college experience. Laughs will be shared, memories created,, and bonds formed that will last a lifetime. Such things will not be found in the same way anywhere else but in the hall you reside in.

Academic Rigor

As a private university, APU holds all of its students to high expectations. Having such expectations will lead to brighter and more disciplined individuals who will go and make all the difference in the world. While many people, especially in the science field, were caught off guard, it simply takes adaptation to do well.

Tips for prospective students

Remember, people are here to study and grow in their faith as a community. No one here is alone, no one is unwelcoming. If it's freedom from judgment you're looking for, you found it. Keep in mind the programs hold higher standards, and may be much more difficult than one many expect at first.

In three sentences

The most tolerant, diverse, and inviting campus all around. Here, God is First, love is found everywhere, and community is at all corners.

Bridging the Gap

Campus Safety is really great! It gets the best pay on campus as far as student employment goes which is nice. They do a really great job of informing the student body of incidences and crime.

Greek Life

There is none! It's an alcohol free school, sorority life would jeopardize that.

Clubs and Activities

There's always stuff happening, just be involved with campus life and it won't be hard to find something to do.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Unusual traditions? I'm not sure about unusual but this campus has traditionally held weekly chapels for the students. Attendance is some what mandatory meaning that you have about 10 misses for the semester that you're allowed to miss. The chapels are usually interesting and the music is great!

Bang for the buck

This school is expensive but it's a great school at the same time.

What to do for fun

Participate in the silly activities and dances that the school puts on. The school in the recent past has done a really great job of including the student's voice on what kinds of activities we can put on.

Food and Dining

The food here is not the best. But the school has definitely been trying to make improvements on the quality and the choices. Being in the dorms last year, it got a little tiring to have to eat the same kinds of food everyday but it wasn't terrible.

Dorm Life

Dorm life was AMAZING. I am not exaggerating. Half the time I didn't even participate in the activities that the RA put on and I still had a good time. It was loud and the girls on my hall were crazy but it was always so much fun. My RA was also a really amazing Christ follower. She opened my eyes to how fun college can be without doing drugs, drinking alcohol, or having sex.

Academic Rigor

Azusa Pacific, for the most part, is a tough school. The professors really expect you to give it your all and be the best student you can be. They don't want to see you fail but at the same time, they aren't afraid of giving a well deserved failing grade. Put effort into the classes and you'll likely to pass every class.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to talk to the professors. They generally don't want to fail you so if you're close to that passing grade, usually with effort and a bit of conversation with the professors, they will give you grace. Don't slack off and don't be afraid to state your opinion. The professors really want to hear what you have to say.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is more or less a private school for all. This school has the most liberal views on sexuality and general life compared to other private Christian colleges in the state of California. It's an eye-opener but watch out for the Christian bubble because the real world is much more cruel.

Angelica from Pauma Valley, CA

12/28/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

You can hike in the Los Angeles National Park nearby, or ride bikes/skateboard around. Pick up an instrument. There's not a big party culture, so you have to find fun things to do on your own or within your groups of friends. The campus staff have regular events for students to attend also.

Food and Dining

Pretty good food, lots of options. Expect to spend a lot of money though, because there is food everywhere and students always get coffee, snacks, lunch on campus. It adds up.

Dorm Life

Housing is pretty nice, and the housing department matches you very well with roommates that have similar interests and life styles.

Academic Rigor

The teachers can teach you as much as you immerse yourself in the course work. They won't force you to be extensively knowledgeable about the subject, that is on you. They do their best to get you excited and invested in the class, but it is your decision to let the knowledge enrich your life or not.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be overwhelmed by the trendy-ness of the student body. Yes, students here mostly come from affluent backgrounds, but it isn't hard to make friends and fit in if you are confident and open minded.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is filled with passionate professors who have extensive experience in their respective fields. They personally invest in you if you are open to them, and you will learn things that change your worldview forever. The student body is quirky and interesting, and people value their intellect and seek to further their understanding of the world.

Brian from Victorville, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

As of now, I do not know what there is to do for fun, but I will find out soon.

Food and Dining

I have not yet experienced the food and dining at Azusa Pacific University.

Dorm Life

Azusa Pacific University has no dorms.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor is very fair and I'm willing to accommodate to those rigors. This allows myself to see the quality education I will be receiving.

Tips for prospective students

Be in frequent contact with your current college counselor, as well as contacting an APU counselor to insure you are on the right path.

In three sentences

Staff is extremely helpful and wonderful. The University, along with it's Christian emphasis, provides a quality education. The campus extension is conveniently located in the High Desert, giving residents the same quality education, without the long commute.

Jordan from Watsonville, CA

12/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The best tradition at APU is the candela. Every new student and their family members receive a candle. All the lights on the west campus are shut off and the only lights is coming from a single candle. The flame is then spread through the entire gathering of people and the result is thousands of flames in unison. The tradition is breathtaking.

Bang for the buck

You do pay a lot of money to go to school at APU but it is so worth it!!!! You get a unique and wonderful community and education that you won't find anywhere else and your experience will be worth every penny!

What to do for fun

There are plenty of things to do for fun. There is indoor and an outdoor recreational basketball court, a new sports complex that includes an astroturf field as well as olympic volleyball courts; there is a gym, an amphitheater, and a recreation center; and APU is also a short driving distance to the beach, LA, Disneyland, Magic Mountain, Knott's Berry Farm, and many other cool locations.

Food and Dining

Azusa's biggest short-fall is its food and dinning. It is capable of having really good food but choices are limited. There are only four different venues to eat from and only one buffet dining hall that serves sub-par food. People come to APU for the academics, athletics, and community, not for the food.

Dorm Life

The best part about being a freshman at APU is dorm life. You will never get the dorm-life experience after freshman year so DONT MISS OUT! Dorm life includes: loud music, spur of the moment activities, games, food, people in each others room all the time, late nights, video games etc. Its something that you don't want to miss; even if you live close to the school and plan on commuting you should consider living in the dorms.

Academic Rigor

APU is becoming a well known institution and continues to grow every year in number and prestige. Be ready to work. There will be lots of papers to write and plenty of reading. Any major you choose has vigorous classes that must be taken.

Tips for prospective students

College is a whole new world since you are out on your own so make sure to ask a lot of questions. If there is anything that you are unsure do not be afraid to ask. Also, meet as many people as you can; you have the ability to make amazing, lifelong friends in your first days of college.

In three sentences

APU has an amazing community where each individual student matters and is encouraged to thrive and succeed. It serves as a place where you can be challenged academically in every area of study during your time at the there. Most importantly, Azusa Pacific University is a place that inspires its students to become world changers.

Aaron from Anaheim, CA

12/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Students who are interested in maintaining a strong Christian connection while attending college. Party atmosphere is very controlled to minimize the usual temptations and there are many support groups to keep students connected to the community.

What to do for fun

There are so many opportunities for varies activities through clubs or campus life activities. Some options are mountain climbing, swing dancing and mission opportunities.

Food and Dining

Lots of options with excellent portions.

Dorm Life

The college is quickly growing but the dorms are comfy and the maintenance staff is quick to remedy any problems.

Academic Rigor

All classes are great and every professor I have had has been excellent.

Tips for prospective students

Be proactive in your application. All of the office staff are wonderful, the campus tours are fun and the preview weekends are a wonderful chance to 'feel out' the college. Look up the Azusa Pacific University Preview weekends, they are wonderful.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is an excellent Private Christian College. All degrees are thorough in applicable knowledge while being Christ centered. In the 3 years at this college I have never been on a wait list for the class and the facilities are excellent.

Rochelle from Boyle Heights, CA

There are constantly activities going on in the dorm halls. If you live on campus there are way more opportunities for that. It is in the LA area so you drive 20 minutes to downtown and visit LA Live.

Tips for prospective students

If you have the opportunity to, live on campus. Not only is it a great learning environment, it is a community of believers. Be prepared to get serious and do not miss chapel or you will be fined. Also, make sure you get yourself a parking permit.

In three sentences

It is a Christian setting where you are taught by passionate and surprisingly down to earth teachers. The environment is a comfortable one; it is an overall safe place to be your self. Although, they could do a bit of a better job at communicating some logistics there.

Janelle from Hemet, CA

The campus is never empty and they are really good about escorting people from West Campus back to East Campus.

Greek Life

We have a few secret societies on-campus, but they are so secret you have to come to APU to find out about them.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

For incoming freshman they can look forward to paint wars, not because you get to mess up your clothes and throw paint on your nemesis, it is because it is technically illegal as long as the school never find sout. Do not tell anyone : ).

Bang for the buck

There are several fast food chains around campus, so if you get tired of campus food McDonalds and Taco Bell are just a sort walk or car ride away.

What to do for fun

There is a shopping mall and movie theater across the street from the campus, and if you are feeling adventurous the transit system can take you to Monrovia. Monrovia has an old-town feel but offers a huge release from being on-campus, plus there are tons of shops and restaurants.

Food and Dining

There is not a lot of variety on-campus. However, there is going to be a new Chick-Filet that is going to be incorporated into the meal plans starting spring semester.

Dorm Life

There are tons of places on-campus to preoccupy your time, like the gym that is on West Campus. Also, there always seems to be an event being hosted by the school and sometimes it can be overwhelming trying to juggle between school work and having fun.

Academic Rigor

Coursework is hard but manageable, but for all science and health majors you will be pushed past your limit so be prepared.

Tips for prospective students

For students who enjoy eating, they should choose a large enough meal plan that will accommodate them.

In three sentences

Great environment to improve your relationship with God, and also to make lasting friendships with staff and students. Plus, it is the perfect location since it close to L.A., beaches, and has nice weather.

Miles Gastil from Lake Forest, CA

11/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There was a homeless person in the lobby one night and campus safety successfully escorted him out without any trouble. They also offer an all-night trolley service to take you wherever you want on campus.

Greek Life

None. I enjoy this aspect of the school very much. Greek life tends to annoy me and I feel like it creates cliques. There is none of this at Azusa.

Clubs and Activities

I haven't experienced much with the clubs yet, but there are always organized activities, concerts, games etc. going on on campus.

Great for these types of students

Christ-lovers, non-Christians, athletes, hipsters, and people devoted to school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Smith vs. Smith. Basically it is a competition between the all boys dorm (named Smith) at Azusa, and the all boys dorm (also named Smith) at Cal Baptist. It is very fun and competitive, and Azusa always wins!

Bang for the buck

We have dining dollars that are fairly useful and give us plenty of snacking options.

What to do for fun

Play sports. If you like to play sports then come to APU. There are always games of basketball, soccer, football, and many other sports going on.

Food and Dining

The cafeteria is pretty terrible to be honest. But there is another cafeteria on the other campus which is very good.

Dorm Life

I live in the all boys dorm. It is an amazing sense of community and family. We have the best time hanging out with each other and just being silly all night.

Academic Rigor

They are increasing the academic standard here immensely. The changes are obvious, with classes becoming increasingly difficult.

Tips for prospective students

If you want a place that isn't as well known on a national level, but one of the top christian universities in the country.

In three sentences

An amazingly friendly and loving environment. It's very comforting, you feel at home everywhere you go. Azusa has become my home away from home.

Ashley from Yorba Linda, CA

11/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have an East and West campus... walking distance or trolly ride from each other. Campus Safety virtually lines the streets at night so we are safe. Campus Safety is headquartered on the first floor of my dorm - Adams Hall. From what I have seen, APU is a very safe campus.

Clubs and Activities

So much to do and get involved with. No reason to be board at APU. I am an Ambassador, but there are clubs like movie club, unicyclers club, young life club etc...

Great for these types of students

Great for students who want to develop Christian Character, academic excellence, sports and the arts.

Bang for the buck

I know my parents are spending a lot of money for me to go to APU. I appreciate it very much. I could not imagine going anywhere else to college. Thank you!

What to do for fun

Go to sporting events, late night donut man runs, watching movies and painting nails with friends. I spend a lot of service and fun time with my ambassador group.

Food and Dining

On campus food is better than I expected. I bought all my on campus meals for the whole semester, which was a smart move. However, I do look forward to our Starbucks runs and going off campus to eat every once in a while to Applebee's or Marie Calendar's.

Dorm Life

Amazing!!! I have made so many new friends from all over the world. The facilities are clean and safe. I love studying, going to football games, eating :) and living the APU college life with the girls in my dorm.

Academic Rigor

Academics at APU have enveloped me in the love of Jesus Christ. I am being challenged spiritually, mentally and emotionally to learn and seek the truth.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved, take advantage of visitation days, read the web-site from front to back, and come to APU for an amazing Christian college experience.

In three sentences

APU is a Christ centered university focused on scholarship, community and service. APU is a safe place to learn and advance Christian, biblical, academic, and spiritual truths. In my short time at APU I have found the university to deliver everything and more of what I was expecting.

It depends on the day for the cafe. Most of the time, the other food places will suffice such as the Den or Mexicali.

Dorm Life

My roommates keep me up every night and I struggle with sleep. They stay up all night and never study, making noise that makes me struggle with my own work. But, I've made friends who are like me in other rooms in the dorm

Academic Rigor

The general classes are mostly a piece of cake. The actual classes that force you to sit down and study are the classes in each individuals major.

Tips for prospective students

I would suggest that people coming here try to get to know their roommates well. I am paired up with roommates that are my polar opposites and we just don't mess together well enough. Make friends and go out to the events to meet new people.

In three sentences

The atmosphere is amazing here where everyone says hello to you and give smiles to you everyday. On some days, you get down heartened, but the next you're back up and running. If you have any sort of christian faith, APU is for you.

Food is decent considering it it difficult to get excellent food for a mass amount of people.

Dorm Life

Great R.A.'s and res. life. FUn dorm experience.

Academic Rigor

I wish it was a bit more challenging, but it can be if you know the right professors to take.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you look into your professors if you want to challenge yourself. Close to a lot of fun things considering it is in Southern California. A lot of activities to do within the school. Go to the High Sierra program!

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is too easy to get into. You really need to search to find quality professors who challenge you. Although academics could use some work, res. life is great and a lot of activities to do.

Alyssa from Whittier, CA

They are everywhere, whether its day or night, you couldnt miss them. they are always on duty and a call away. There are also Azusa Police driving trough the campus at night.

Greek Life

Because this is a christian university, there are no fraternitys or sorotitys.

Clubs and Activities

APU students are very invloved in activities and there are so many clubs.

Great for these types of students

There is a club or an organization for anybody on campus, no matter your personailty, gender, age, or race.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Everyone here is unusually friendly. no matter how well you know them or how soon you met them, conversations spark very easily.

Bang for the buck

Just a tip, never let cougar vucks or dining dollars go to waste, they dont roll over.

What to do for fun

There are always events going on on the campus: concerts, plays, events within your dorm hall, and there is a movie theather and a plaza right across the street from the school.

Food and Dining

The campus food is great. there are 11 choices on campus and soon to be a 12th choice when the Chic-fil-a is finally up. You have every food to choose from: mexican food, good bbq, sushi, chinese, hamburgers, and soon the best chicken anything!

Dorm Life

There is always something going on in the dorms. The RA's are usually friendly, welcoming, and willing to sort out roommate problems.

Academic Rigor

The school is amazing academically. Classes are challenging and engaging, always make sure you're study. On the plus side, professor are at your disposal.

Tips for prospective students

If its possible, go to a community college first, or make sure you apply for every scholarship out there. Be open to experience what God has planned for you at APU.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is a very friendly, family-oriented, christian university. There is always something to do on campus, so you wont ever be bored. Classes are small and professors are amazing; but its expensive!

Christian, Self-driven, Searching for spirituality and answers about God, likes opportunity for a one on one professor to student experience.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Theres a spot in the Darling Library under the glass skylight where if u make a sound it surrounds you and bounces back, sounds like loud sparkles so COOL!

Bang for the buck

This school is worth every pricey penny. This education is priceless.

What to do for fun

So many thing. Intramural sports, events and dances, parties, etc

Food and Dining

Sams Sub, Sushi, and Mexicali are pretty good, but many other places are just bad.

Dorm Life

Trinity is the best!

Tips for prospective students

Look into your specific program before you begin school, and ask God continuously about your calling, when you hear it, OBEY!

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University creates a strong spiritual environment, where Christians can explore their faith and be challenged. The sense of community appears overwhelming and fast-paced, but you can find deep relationships here. This school will change your life.

Hiking up the mountain thats near the school or traveling through the tunnels

Bang for the buck

$35,000 a year.

What to do for fun

Going off campus

Food and Dining

You have to buy the meal plans and the bucks to use at school. Other than that the meals are at least $9. In the student stores, prices vary

Dorm Life

I'm a commuter

Academic Rigor

There's always homework and you're always studying when you don't.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready for loads of walking because you will have classes on either west or east campus which is half a mile from each other. Also for the chapel attendance; Monday,Wednesday, and Friday from 9:30am-10:30am. It's mandatory, unless you meet the requirements that you will find on the website, however you can miss up to 10 a semester but if you miss more you have to pay extra or be on chapel probation

In three sentences

A very Very religious school. Small environment, so people are recognizable. Very chill environment

Brian from Carpinteria, CA

10/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

APU is a Christian university, so the majority of people that attend here are Christians. However, there are non-Christian students that attend here and find it very easy to interact with the majority of the population.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Ring by Spring

Bang for the buck

APU has a high price tag, but they are very helpful in helping you finance your tuition. Either through University scholarships and grants, or helping you outsource scholarships, grants and if need be loans. The experience is completely worth the price tag, and can easily be financed with the right help.

What to do for fun

APU's Communiversity is also putting on events that you can get involved in and many of these are the most memorable! There are also nearby recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and the beach isn't too far if you'd like to go on the weekends! There are also a few tourist destinations that are just a short drive away such as Raging Waters, Disneyland and Universal Studios!

Food and Dining

The food is is good, as long as you eat at a variety of locations. Luckily Hospitality Services is always improving their menues at the eight dining locations on campus. There are also nearby off-campus eateries if you ever need variance in your diet.

Dorm Life

This is the source of community on campus! The dorms are where you will spend the most amount of social time! Here is where you will build relationships that will last a lifetime! Dorm life is honestly one of the best parts about APU. The amount of love and community that comes from these halls is overwhelming and amazing!

Academic Rigor

APU has some of the best professors around! They challenge you and keep you on your toes. However, every professor has your best intentions in mind! They are always there to help you out and give you the attention you need. This doesn't mean that they will hold your hand through every class, but they are there to support you so that you may succeed!

Tips for prospective students

Come to a preview weekend! Or at the very least take a tour of the school! It is impossible to entirely judge a school by a website, or by what people tell you, first hand experience is the best way to figure out what you like!

In three sentences

APU is an extremely welcoming and the moment you walk onto the campus you feel a sense of community. It is literally the best of both worlds, being that it's a mid sized university so you get the big university atmosphere during sporting events, yet you are still able to receive the attention you need or want, that a small school would provide. APU is an amazing university that has a place for everyone, everything and anything you want can be found here!

Katie from Grass Valley, CA

Go to Hungtington Beach! It's not that far, and it's so much fun. Also, take advantage of the awesome sand volleyball courts on campus!

Food and Dining

The food here is good until you've been here for more than a month. There are a lot of options, but West Campus dining is definitely more appealing than East Campus food. Sometimes it can be frustrating because the food places will be closed on Sundays at weird times or they will run out of certain foods.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is probably the best experience ever. At APU the RAs work hard to help everyone get to know each other, so making friends is easy! I absolutely love Trinity because everyone knows it's where the fun is.

Academic Rigor

The rigor of classes here vary depending on your major. I came in as an applied health major, so the classes were pretty difficult. General Chemistry and General Biology caught me off guard a little bit, but if you manage your time correctly it will be fine. Most of the general education classes are pretty easy which is nice.

Tips for prospective students

Learn how to manage your time in an effective and productive way. You'll have to learn that there are always going to be fun things going on, and sometimes you'll have to give up those things for a night or two to get the grades you want. At the same time, make sure you take time to do fun things or you could get overwhelmed by the work-load.

In three sentences

APU is the PERFECT place to be if you want to grow in your relationship with God while gaining an education. The professors here know what they are talking about, and for the most part, they want to have a personal relationship with the students. Everyone here is super friendly too, so it's really easy to make friends and have a good time.

Bailey from Azusa, CA

09/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I live in the dorm that houses Campus Safety, so I always feel secure at night. Campus Safety offers rides at ALL HOURS, so if I need a ride at 3AM, I can call someone free of charge. I'm never afraid to walk around APU at night, it is SO SAFE here. There are Campus Safety crew members everywhere, and they are all very kind and approachable.

Greek Life

There are no fraternities or sororities at APU, but there are TONS of small group options to get involved in (Alpha groups, D-groups, etc.)

Clubs and Activities

There are so many opportunities here, it's hard to NOT get involved.

Great for these types of students

Christian students who like to have fun! Students seeking a quality education and professors that CARE. Students who want to feel safe at college (or parents who want their kids to feel safe!) Anyone who loves social gatherings!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

APU is comprised of 2 campuses, which means more food options, more classroom space, and more event centers!

Bang for the buck

Azusa is pricey, but when you take into account the quality and education of the professors (most have Phds), dorm life, student life and the general environment here, APU IS worth it.

What to do for fun

APU is about 30 minutes from the coast, so beach visits are common. There are many hiking trails in the area, good restaurants and yogurt shops that are conveniently placed within walking distance.

Food and Dining

Azusa has many different restaurants to choose from, from Chipotle-style mexican food to a Starbucks-like cafe, and there are even more options on the other campus (which is within walking distance). However, the food in the cafeteria is hardly fresh or real (powdered eggs?)

Dorm Life

I live in the oldest dorm at Azusa, and it is still in very nice shape. There are lounges with tvs for socializing, sound proof study rooms for late nights or even music practice, laundry rooms, and comfortable living space in the actual dorm.

Academic Rigor

The faculty at Azusa is amazing and cares not only about their students' academics, but also their spirits and well-being. Course work is difficult, but truly prepares students for the future.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved! There are so many opportunities here!

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is certainly not a quiet University. Nestled in the town of Azusa, the University is constantly reaching out to the community and truly making a difference. Azusa Pacific University makes college a true experience and a place to get involved.

Pamela from Adelanto, CA

Campus Safety keeps you up to date on anything and everything (bad) happening not only on campus but in the Azusa area as well. They are sticklers for parking/tickets but they mean good.

Great for these types of students

Anyone who wants to feel at home. The community is amazing.

Food and Dining

The food could be better but its food. Sometimes you could really like it, and other times you just want to walk down to a place off campus.

Dorm Life

I absolutely loved living in the dorms. It was an amazing experience being surrounded by such amazing girls. We definitely created bonds that will lost a long time.

Academic Rigor

The Professors really care for your success and show it right off the bat.

Tips for prospective students

Don't let the price of the school keep you away. It was definitely worth it and if God brings you here and opens the doors for it He will definitely get you through it. We're all struggling but as i said it is worth it.

Marilea from Victorville, CA

Adult professionals who want to advance quickly. APU has an excellerated program that is fabulous.

Bang for the buck

For the money, APU is considered one of the top Christian Universities in the country as well as being one of the least expensive to attend.

What to do for fun

Unknown

Food and Dining

Unknown

Dorm Life

Unknown

Academic Rigor

Excellent

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you have all the credits you need to attend and graduate on time. Also have your financials in order.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University has a satellite school, which is conveniently located in my city of Victorville. The facility is beautiful and very functional. The instructors are all very knowledgeable. I am proud to become a graduate of APU in November of 2012!

Anonymous

Students who want to grow in their relationship with God and deepen their faith.

Bang for the buck

APU is obviously expensive, like any other private school, but they are really good about financial aid and making it possible for you to attend. Plus, where else will you find an amazing academic education along with a place where you'll develop into a better Christian as well? :)

Food and Dining

There are pretty good choices on campus! Sushi, sandwiches, coffee, mexican, smoothies...

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great. There are always events planned with your hall or with your whole dorm!

Academic Rigor

The honors program is phenomenal. We get priority class registration, smaller class sizes and amazing professors. All classes are great though. The professors love what they do and are really interested in helping out their students.

Tips for prospective students

Come and visit the campus and attend chapel and a class that you're interested in. Plan on spending a good half a day on campus, rather than just going on a tour and leaving. You'll really get a good feel for what the school is like.

In three sentences

As cliche as this may sound, the community here is like no other. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming (students, professors and administration). The school really tries to help everyone find their place on campus (dorm hall dinners, discipleship groups, clubs, etc).

MJ San Jose, CA

The area has a bad rep of theft and assaults, but the school has bumped up its campus safety. I personally feel very safe. Buddy System.

Clubs and Activities

You should start up a fun legit club! PIO rocks!

Great for these types of students

Super Energetic Kids. I'm more of an introvert but I like the atmosphere. Christians who like a challenge of trying to live the Christian life in the world on your own because not everyone here acts Cristian or is Christian, with the support of some great Christian Leaders. AND people who love sermons and worship to go 3times a week. I do. (not being sarcastic)

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

GYRAD. Ask about that! Study places: if the library is packed try the Business building or the Cougar Dome. trying to find a place to study for finals can suck.

What to do for fun

Unless you have a car you are stuck with what you got. Target ( a whiles walk), Chipotle, movie theaters, Apple Bees, Ross, Styles, KFC, Taco Bell, mostly restaurant and clothing shops. On campus there is the gym on West, and the Cougar Dome has basketball hoops and pool tables, ping pong, and extra computers.

Food and Dining

Different varieties offered, but after a year of eating the same food, you want to learn how to cook something different. Tip: Cooking impresses the ladies.

Dorm Life

Never lived in the dorms but University Village is great for community- get to know your neighbors. The Village is one step closer to being an adult (somewhat, not really). Strict rules. 4 Stars for safety and fun events.

Academic Rigor

Pretty easy going I say. But plagiarism is no joke.

Tips for prospective students

Get the best of your money and use all the resources the school has to offer. For example the writing center, free personal counseling. Do it all your freshmen/soph year and make friends.

Jack from San Juan Capistrano, CA

Ultra safe university. There is a staff of highly trained security professionals dedicated to the safety of the student body.

Greek Life

Greek life is nonexistent at this University.

Clubs and Activities

Rugby club at this university is Top Notch!

Great for these types of students

This University is great for student who want something different, something more than a few nights of blurred memory and drunken mess.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is a midnight adventure at the donut shop down the street that every student must entertain in order to call themselves a valid student of the university. When there buy a Tiger Tail.

Bang for the buck

Many people search their entire lives for an experiences that APU gives every day, you can put a price tag on that.

What to do for fun

Communiversity and Rezlife will keep any student posted on fun and creative activities through the week, every week.

Food and Dining

APU has options but the overall food quality is poor. I know several people get sick from eating in the cafeteria.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is Bomb! There is no other like it because people will be investing in the residents and that is where life happens.

Academic Rigor

The Academic Rigor of this school is dependent on the Major chosen as well as the teachers selected. Overall Azusa Pacific University is Academically Rigorous.

Tips for prospective students

Look past the campus location and financial cost and see the value of the school in its intangibles.

In three sentences

APU values relationships, self-reflection and service. Because of these values the education experience is unique and worth the high cost of attendance. When I ask graduates of APU how they liked their school they most often reply with the same three words,I loved It.

Amber from Huntington Beach, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Bang for the buck

At first glance APU is very expensive but the financial aid office wants to help you get there. They will do everything possible to help.

What to do for fun

There is a movie theater right down the street and there is also many places that you can go such as the cookie mill which is a great ice cream sandwich place.

Food and Dining

There are plenty of options for food on both campuses.

Dorm Life

The dorm life is absolutely amazing because everyone is in such great community with each other. There are many options of dorms such as Adams Trinity Engstrom and Smith. Each one has its own special aspects.

Academic Rigor

I am not sure about the academic rigor because I have not yet attended. However I hear that the classes are very challenging and applicable to your major/subject.

Tips for prospective students

If you are looking for a great Christian campus with amazing community consider APU. And if money is an issue the financial aid office will do everything they can to make it possible for you to attend.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is an amazing school with lots of options. They are all about God First and have plenty of majors that all incorporate Christ.

APU has the best weather ever (mostly sunny and green all year 'round) and the people are generally friendly. The APU community is highly guarded from the surrounding city to create a safe environment for the students.

What to do for fun

I love to go hiking because there are so many good trails that are walking distance or are less than 30 minutes away by car. I spend a lot of time with my church too: Bible studies, helping at youth group, taking classes (Financial Peace University or Evangelism Explosion), prayer group, or just meeting to play at the park or go to frozen yoghurt. There are 4 frozen yoghurt shops walking distance from APU and that is where a lot of students go to hang out.

Food and Dining

I eat at the cafeteria or one of the various food courts as often as I can but they are really expensive - 8$ a meal!

Dorm Life

The community at APU is strong. There is a lot of pressure to get involved in small groups and community events so that students feel supported and loved and develop healthy relationships.

Academic Rigor

APU requires an average of 2 hrs of study time a day unless you are a nursing major or a music major... then it is a lot harder.

Tips for prospective students

There are always good and bad teachers everywhere you go. Make sure to look up your teachers on ratemyprofessor.com. Teachers make or break a class! If you want to learn wisdom then make sure to choose wise teachers.

In three sentences

APU has strong priorities: Christ and community. Students have a hard time remaining uninvolved in the community with events almost everyday and various clubs and service projects and the words Community posted everywhere and emphasized by speakers and teachers. APU strives to be a city on a hill and a light for Christ.

Elisabeth from Azusa, CA

Campus safety is one thing I will give this university. Campus safety is everywhere! They guard the entrances to the university's apartments at night.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Zombies versus Humans! This is a zany, but fun looking game that is played at APU each year.

Bang for the buck

APU is overpriced for what they offer. I had more resources at my community college for 30 times less than what I pay here. You pay for the area (near LA). It has worked well for me because it has also helped me with connections (I am a theatre major).

What to do for fun

APU is close to the mountains so there is plenty of hiking. Pasadena is 20 minutes away and there are great restaurants/bars and other attractions there.

Food and Dining

I rarely eat on campus, but the eating is better than many campus eateries. They have a sub place which is pretty good, and there is even a sushi place!

Dorm Life

Since I came in as a transfer I never lived in a dorm. I did live in on-campus apartments though. The apartments are ok. the biggest issue is crowding. The University does not have enough space for their growing student population. I would suggest off-campus housing. It is cheaper and less crowded!

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor at APU is slightly higher than it was at my community college. If you are a good test taker you will get great grades here!

Tips for prospective students

If you do choose to attend this University, make sure that you stay on top of everything. Make sure that any mail you send is certified so that you have proof that it was sent.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is unorganized. It is difficult to get a hold of people (they are often on lunch breaks, in business meetings, and many times will not email or call you back). It was especially difficult coming in as a transfer student. I sent my transcripts to the school 3 times before coming to the school to try to keep track of what classes were transferring. Only my first transcript was processed, and it was not until almost a month after I had been attending the school that my latest transcript was processed.

The only Acro&Tumbling team in California. As far as I'm aware the only Christian University in California with a football team as well. If football's big for you...it's kind of the only option in Cali.

Great for these types of students

Christians. Or anyone that wants to learn about and in a Christian enviornment. Chapels required, there's a curfew on the dorms(note, you will probably see a lot of couples hanging out right outside the halls past curfew, it's pretty funny actually), and you might actually see people worshiping around a bonfire regularly. If you're not cool with any of this, you probably shouldn't be going to a $40,000 school when you can easily go to a public school. Then again, the experience is what you make it.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

AMPITHEATER! It's kind of hidden away but I thought it was just so quiet and peaceful and there's a little hidden walkway. When you need quiet, you can come here. There's a lot of little nooks for meditation or studying and it's very encouraging.

What to do for fun

There's a theater, a bunch of little food places, and just simply visiting other dorms. Azusa seems like the type of community where you have to make your own fun(and coming from a small town that's not hard for me). Of course Pasadena's next door and L.A.'s about a half hour away. But as far as in Azusa, your fun is dependent on you.

Food and Dining

The coffee shop had some of the best coffee I'd tasted in the weekend I visited. Taco King was pretty good as was Yogurtland. Unfortunately I didn't visit Donut Man. But the food that I did eat was pretty decent.

Dorm Life

Trinity(okay I stayed in it for two nights and didn't visit the other's and I kind of regret it but whatever) was very very nice. The dorms were very nice, the halls were very clean, and the bathrooms had music playing almost all reasonable hours along with these cute little add a quote/story posters in the stalls. The bathrooms were actually pretty nice for being Community bathrooms. Surprisingly the beauty of the bathrooms had a HUGE determinant on whether or not I liked the school, I mean if you have to get ready and shower in there you don't want it to look all ratty and disgusting. Almost all the dorms I walked by(in the girls halls) had little scriptures everywhere and there was just a sense of togetherness that was really encouraging.

Academic Rigor

Can't say too much as I haven't gone here yet, but the class I visited was pretty interesting, we compared the world's body image to God's idea of good body image it was kind of cool.

Tips for prospective students

GET GOOD GRADES! Junior year grades are BY FAR the most important year to have good grades(Azusa looks at SOPH/JUN when considering for merit scholarships) and unfortunately I figured this out during Spring break of my junior year. Also be ready to meet a lot of different people, the people that I met weren't all cookie cutter Christian and depending on your expectations you could either be encouraged or disappointed. Most importantly VISIT the school. I didn't believe this at first, but after visiting this school I was starting to see what life here would really be like, not what I wanted it to be like because there can be a BIG difference.

In three sentences

I thought the campus was incredibly pretty(I am a semi-nature/small town feel buff though). Almost immediately there was a sense of community felt, and all of the facilities that I visited definitely exceeded my expectations.

Danielle from Valencia, CA

06/17/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

With APU and I sharing the Christian belief, I haven't given any thought in regards to safety issues. While doing a walk through the campus of APU I remember seeing campus security around. No worries....

Greek Life

I am open to learning about the Greek life.

Clubs and Activities

During the last three years of high school, I was part of the chior group. I auditioned for chior at APU and was accepted to joining the team.

Great for these types of students

Students who have Godly principals and morals will love APU. Having a Chapel to worship at makes a greater experience to be had.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Nothing to share at this time yet.

Bang for the buck

APU offers quite a few different scholarships and grants that prospective students can recieve. With the help of financial aid funds recieved and the stafford loans, along with the federal work study program, helped me with the cost of attendance. APU is reasonable with tuition and fees for an education. I will have school loans to attend to after graduating in four years, but I feel that it was worth every penny to have been a part of the Azusa Pacific family.

What to do for fun

In a few months I would be able to address this question better. For now all I can say is that I am looking forward to meeting new friends and staying active with my time at APU.

Food and Dining

APU is located within walking distance to a variety of stores, markets, and dining. This relieves the stress of having to drive for and deal with parking or traffic.

Dorm Life

I am very excited to start my new journey in the dorm life. This is definately going to be a big adventure to cope with along with my rattled nerves of moving away from home and beginning my career goals of life. My girlfriend from high school will also be attending APU. We requested to become dorm roomies which will help make our experience much easier to achieve.

Academic Rigor

Becoming successful in all academics taken at APU will take some hard work. Having a reputation of excellence in education and personalized guidance from the faculty and professors, deserves all five stars in my book. Yes, at times my campus experience will be rigorous, but I don't have to worry about not having any support at this institute.

Tips for prospective students

The most important tip I highly recommend to prospective students is - as you enter high school, immediatly look into colleges and universities. Start taking the SAT and ACT exams in tenth grade. Include AP courses in your academic schedule through out high school and volunteer as much of your time as possible to organizations. You and your parents should sign up and create a profile with college board at collegeboard.org. This website provides many resourceful information for the prospective college students to prepare for the financial assistance, when to submit college applications, helpful tips when writing essays for acceptance and much, much more all step by step.

In three sentences

APU offers a valuable educational experience of excellence. There is the social and spiritual side of APU life. I highly recommend this university of choice to all who want a home away from home.

Megan from San Jose, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Christian, looking to stay strong in their faith while still receiving a quality education.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Azusa has a grandparents day, where you can bring your grandparents to tour the school. I know mine were excited to hear that!

Bang for the buck

Azusa requires students to take biblical and religious classes, which is not required in most schools. Because of this, some students feel that they are paying for credits that aren't going to further them in their career. I personally am looking forward to these classes, but I guess that's more a matter of personal opinion and how you feel about classes that are required at Azusa.

What to do for fun

Azusa is 20 minutes away from the mountains, which you can use for hiking in the summer or skiing/snowboarding in the winter, 20 minutes from the beach, and about half an hour from Disneyland. They have brand new sand volleyball courts too! There is a big on campus selection of clubs and activities, and if you want to get out of town, go to the beach, mountains, or Disneyland!

Food and Dining

Azusa basically has their own Chipotle on campus, and if you're not a chipotle person they have burgers, a deli, a cafe, and a cafeteria buffet, on top of the other individual food vendors all around the campus. They have lots of meal plans to choose from, and the food is very tasty.

Dorm Life

Azusa has only a few dorms, but they are so different that one of the three will be right for anyone. They have a more social, party dorm that is co-ed (Trinity), a co-ed dorm with one bathroom shared between every four people (Enstrom), and an all-girls (Adams) and all-guys (Smith) more relaxed dorm.

Academic Rigor

From what I've seen, Azusa puts a high emphasis on it's students' academics, but not so much to create a stressful environment. It's a productive and supported studying environment.

Tips for prospective students

If you get accepted to Azusa as an undergraduate freshman and feel like there is a good chance you will want to attend, send in your housing deposits right away! The two most popular dorms get filled up super fast, and if you decide you don't want to attend they will still give you a full refund on your deposit.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific has a beautiful campus, and a friendly atmosphere. I was very impressed with their class registration process: it was simple, short and to the point. My parents and I have had our questions answered by their staff promptly and thoroughly, and I will be proud to call myself a student at Azusa Pacific this fall.

Alyssa from Federal Way, WA

06/04/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

I always feel safe on campus. There are campus safety officers all over the place, and they even hired extra security to patrol the surrounding streets at night. They do a great job of notifying students immediately of any safety warnings, as well as how to protect yourself.

Bang for the buck

The tuition is expensive, but they offer great scholarships and I believe it is all worth it.

What to do for fun

It's near LA so there is a lot to do! You are close to great concerts, Disneyland, Magic Mountain, the beach, Hollywood, hiking trails, and so much more. The town of Azusa isn't that exciting but there is so much to do on campus and also in the surrounding areas.

Food and Dining

There are so many options for on-campus dining. The cafeteria is pretty good, but there are tons of other choices - Mexicali, Cougar Den, two coffeeshops, a BBQ place, sub shop, sushi shop, two mini marts - you will not get tired of the food for a LONG time.

Dorm Life

The RA's are all so great and there are tons of dorm activities! I lived in Adams, which is the all-girls dorm, and I loved every minute of it.

Academic Rigor

Every professor I've had has gone above and beyond to help me learn. Classes really make you think about what you believe and how to apply what you're learning to the real world.

Tips for prospective students

Schedule a visit to see if you fit here. If you are looking for a school that isn't quite as big as some state schools, that still has lots of great opportunities, check out APU!

In three sentences

APU feels like home and the community is truly amazing. The professors care about you, the work is challenging and engaging, and life on campus is lots of fun. I highly recommend this school!

Juliana from Los Angeles, CA

05/31/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

This is the one area the university could definitely improve. As the area around the university begins to grow larger so do the dangers. Students usually travel to different places in groups or call campus safety for a ride. But is not advised that students go anywhere alone. Nevertheless, even as an open campus, APU has taken measures to improve its quality of safety.

Clubs and Activities

APU offers its students a large range of activities every semester. The school provides everything from carnivals to movie nights. Almost all APU activities are free or cost at the most $ 2. The school really does a great job of promoting a healthy student life. In addition, it offers a variety of clubs and club sponsored events that only add to the quality of dorm life.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Humans vs. Zombies!

Bang for the buck

APU is well worth its cost. The university goes out of its way to help students financially. Considering how much the university invests back into its students' education, APU is well worth its cost.

What to do for fun

APU makes every step of the college experience somewhat fun. The events offered on campus are especially catered to the interests of students. Since the community around the university is fairly small, most students travel to Pasadena or Los Angeles on the weekend, but stay on campus during the week to enjoy the university sponsored events.

Food and Dining

The food at APU is not terrible, but it is not five star worthy. Considering everything the university offers its students, it is a small detail most students just learn to live with. Nevertheless, in the last two years the university has taken huge steps to improve its quality of food by opening new venues and offering healthier options.

Dorm Life

APU offers the BEST dorm life. By the end of the Fall semester, everyone knows each other's name and is made to feel appreciated. Administration goes out of its way to convert the dorms into small communities. Every week there are activities, meetings, and events created for students in the dorms.

Academic Rigor

The professors at APU are experts in their field. They provide classes which are both challenging and interesting. Most professors are available outside of their office hours and are more than willing to sit with a meet with an individual student. I have yet to take a class for my major that does not challenge me in some way.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared to be pushed outside of your comfort zone! APU challenges their students to get involved. Everyone is made to feel important so keep an open mind and be prepared to get challenged.

In three sentences

APU is the perfect combination between community and scholarship. This university is focused on serving students through quality education and extracurricular activities. APU is serious about providing its students with a Christ focused education.

Che'Renee from North Las Vegas, NV

The best campus safety! I felt safe. Make sure you use the shuttle to get from west to east campus at night!

Clubs and Activities

BE A PART OF A CLUB!!!!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Chapel. Chapel is a great experience. You have to go three times a week but they are not that long. It is an amazing opportunity to get to know peers and worship. You don't have to be Christian to attend, it still can be fun. GuyRad (Get your roommate a date): big freshman game Trinity lawn: Is the place to be Secret war against Adams and Smith dorms Seven palms: lots of activities here Wood panel near mail boxes: lots of controversial conversation posted on this board

Bang for the buck

You give what you get! You are paying the money for a private education! 1. Great education 2. You get ALL of the classes you need. Never had a problem with getting a class. If the class is full you still have a huge chance to get in. 3. Lots of university activities. Almost every week. Carnivals, Halloween activities, school dances! SPLATTER (paint dance, paint gets thrown at you) and many other dances! Lots of chances to dress up! So bring some fancy clothes!

What to do for fun

Try to make friends with cars so you can leave the campus sometiems. My friends and I always went on mini vacations to friend's houses that lived in the area. Swimming, beach, hiking, laser tag and PLENTY of school events.

Food and Dining

There are about 13 places to eat on campus. You will start to miss a home cooked meal so eating off campus sometimes is a must.

Dorm Life

I lived in the all girls dorm Adams and it was very homelike. Lots of fun activities to get to know the other girls in the hall. You become a family! I LOVED MY DORM EXPERIENCE! Wouldn't change it for the world.

Academic Rigor

Very challenging courses but the class sizes are small and the professors know your name. If you need help the professors will help you. Office hours are your way to success.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you get involved in lots of school activities; Discipleship program and the alpha leader program are two great things to be involved in. GET TO KNOW PEOPLE! Everyone is really open to meeting new people, especially the freshman. Don't be afraid to stand out and be yourself.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is a great university, with a great staff and amazing people. It is a Christian based school BUT it is very expensive, make sure you apply for scholarships. The price is worth it!! I have met a lot of amazing people and got a great college experience!

Lots of activities to participate in and worship together 3 times a year with Soulquest.

Great for these types of students

Perfect for adults returning to school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We are not on the Azusa campus.

Bang for the buck

Azusa is a private school but the credentials the school holds will allow me to teach anywhere in the United States. Not every school has that to offer.

What to do for fun

Get to know your classmates!!!

Food and Dining

We bring food in to share during our 20 minute break during each class.

Dorm Life

Because this is an adult ed center, we commute to school.

Academic Rigor

Every class I have had up to now has been academically challenging and the homework load has been appropriate but doable.

Tips for prospective students

Have a plan before you apply and know what you can afford. Do not procrastinate!

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University's Center for Adult and Professional Studies is fabulous for the adult returning to school to finish. The professor's are excellent and I could not have asked for more support. I would recommend this school to everyone!

Amanda from California

There's campus safety 24/7. They always keep us updated on whats going on on and around campus.

Greek Life

No greek life at APU being it a private Christian university, but there is an academic greek club for nursing.

Great for these types of students

Academic as well as spiritual growth is of importance here. If you're looking to integrate your faith into the work you're doing, this is the place to be. If you're interested in serving others, APU is perfect because they have so many community service opportunities, as well as many mission trip opportunities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Halls usually do GYRAD- get your roomate a date, which is a fun event.

Bang for the buck

I know APU is definitely more on the pricier side, but if you are taking your academics seriously, as well as the spiritual aspect that APU has to offer, I believe attending APU is definitely worth the money.

What to do for fun

If you have a car, you can drive around to Disneyland and go around LA or anywhere really, everything is like an hour away from each other. As for around campus, there are yogurt places that are open, or donut man (open 24 hours-but it's quite a walk). Hanging out with friends in the dorms, playing games, playing outside on the lawn (volleyball, frisbee, football). Me and my friend go to the beach often and hang out there since it's usually nice and warm here!

Food and Dining

Food on west campus is great and there is more variety - japanese, chinese, american, coffee shop, a quickimart. On east campus mexicali is pretty good, and so is the bbq place (open during the day). The caf is decent and so is the den, which sells pizza, burgers, sandwiches, salads and has a little market. Because the places are student run, the hours on the weekends aren't so convenient, but you learn to deal with it and watch for the time. If not, there are many places to eat of campus.

Dorm Life

I loved living in Engstrom my freshman year. You get your own bathroom and sinks in your room. The rooms are nice and spacious compared to others. Be involved and willing to participate in the hall events and you'll have a blast!

Academic Rigor

Take the right teachers and you'll get challenging classes that are worth your money. There are so many great, insightful and caring teachers here at APU. My prereq science classes for nursing were definitely hard, but I can say that I did learn.

Tips for prospective students

Come on campus and experience the environment for yourself, that's all it took for me to decide. Take a campus tour and sit in on classes if possible. Also, take your SAT's and ACT's seriously, it will determine how much scholarship you get. Know that you have to attend chapel 3 times a week, and fulfill 120 ministry and service credits to graduate. There are a couple of Bible classes you have to take, but they are all so great, it should not even be a problem.

In three sentences

APU has such a great community and teachers that truly care for the students - interested not only in their academics, but also in their lives. The campus is considered small in that you'll see familiar faces everyday, but big enough that you don't know everyone.

Megan from Lincoln, CA

The campus safety is very high, with safety workers working all night.

Clubs and Activities

There are SO many missions trips to participate in! You can go basically anywhere in the world. Mexico missions trips are most popular, and there is even a medical team that students can join!

Great for these types of students

Christians, people seeking purpose in life, and people looking to gain a worldwide perspective. For people looking to make a difference.

What to do for fun

The beach is only 30 minutes away! THere are fun hiking trails, and you can even be in a hiking class for PE!

Food and Dining

There are multiple venues and fair meal plans. We have a sushi place, a Chipolte-Esqe place, a cafeteria, a burger den, a sandwich den, two coffee shops, and a sub shop with fresh bread every day.

Dorm Life

The housing is alright. The people are nice :)

Academic Rigor

I've only been to these college classes, but I hear their tough. This is a good thing. You are paying for college, so learn as much as you can.

Tips for prospective students

Tuition is EXPENSIVE! There are merit based scholarships offered by the college; make sure you do good on the ACT and/or SAT. Also, keep a very high GPA. Also, Azusa just was moved into the NCAA, so if you're an athlete, consider a scholarship from them for athletics.

In three sentences

Azusa is perfect for a student seeking an education beyond academics. Out of ten points, I rate Azusa a 9 in the academic education I received. In growth as person, I rate this college off the charts; I have shot beyond adolescent ignorance thanks to this school.

Lyndi from La Verne CA

05/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Campus Safety is in charge of giving out parking tickets and also offers a variety of services. Campus Safety gives escorts back to dorms on campus or to cars on campus, which can be helpful when getting off work late or coming back from a movie premiere. My friends and I have used their services and they are really friendly, they will walk you back to your living quarters, or if you are on the other campus really late, pick you up and drive you back.

Clubs and Activities

There is a variety of activities that students can get involved in, social, service, multi-ethnic, academic, and athletic clubs. There are nine different multi-ethnic clubs, a hip hop dance team, best buddies, and young life. Students can join Rez Life, student government, or the student newspaper. These are all student run organizations, which are the best, because it means that there is energy for them and a need for them on campus.

Great for these types of students

There is an excellent nursing program, many of my friends are studying to become RNs. If that is you, study hard, you can do it! Not many schools seem to have a Global Learning Program, so if you are interested in other cultures, there is also an Ethnic Studies minor.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Smith vs. Smith, where one hall plays games against a hall with the same name from another school.

Bang for the buck

Azusa Pacific can be a bit expensive, but you get what you are paying for. That is the community, which is extremely important on this campus, and highly emphasized. It is encouraged to live on campus, but not all do, some live nearby. Important lifelong friendships can be formed from these years at school

What to do for fun

Get involved in campus events, go to the beach, L.A., or a movie with friends. There are so many campus events, many of which are free, some are movie screenings, there's expressions, with poetry and dance, and speakers come, as well.

Food and Dining

The food and dining has made an improvement over the last year due to student demands to healthy food. There are a variety of places to eat, a place to grab food and go on each campus, a coffee shop on each, and a restaurant that serves food to go on both campuses, although West campus is known for being more gourmet. The cafeteria is standard cafeteria food, it is mixed up with deli style sandwiches, and ethnic style food.

Dorm Life

The dorm life that is offered is excellent, many events are organized so that students can get to know others on their hall and in their dorm. Hall events, dorm events, and campus events all help to emphasize community. Examples are family dinners, where everyone dresses in silly outfits and goes to eat together in the cafeteria. Small groups, trips to the beach, and concerts on the lawn are also a part of dorm life.

Academic Rigor

The classes offered are faith integrated and at a college level, which means they are not easy. There is an honors program that is offered for those that wish for an extra academic push, but students must qualify for it. These classes have some extra work than regular classes.

Tips for prospective students

Study hard, write a well-written essay, proof read it, work to get good grades, and get references from people that know you.

In three sentences

A Christian University that prepares and gives Christians and non-Christians alike a quality education. This lets Christians pursue a career in a variety of fields and still be privately educated. This school lives out their beliefs on the four cornerstones of Christ, scholarship, community, and service.

Paint wars with alpha groups! As freshmen or transfers, you will get assigned an alpha group or a transfer team, respectively. this gives you a nice base of people to start getting to know, and to give you a solid way to transition, all the while having a leader you can ask any kinds of questions to especially if you're lost!

Bang for the buck

Super expensive, but definitely worth it. Especially when compared to other colleges.

Food and Dining

APUs food is not the greatest. But hey, they try.

Dorm Life

Dorms are great, and you learn to love them. Not necessarily while living there, but you do end up loving them. RAs are great, and you end up becoming long lasting friends with those on your hall.

Academic Rigor

APU is a tough school, but in the end, you will end up so happy you you were pushed this hard.

Tips for prospective students

Don't let the chapel requirement scare you off. Kaleo is great!

In three sentences

APU is a family place. As much as we are students we are family with one final purpose: to serve and honor Christ with our academics, and every other aspect of our lives.

DoubleOh7

There is a campus safety department that provides rides from anywhere on campus or will walk with you if you feel unsafe. There are also student workers walking around 24/7.

Greek Life

There isn't any Greek life on campus.

Clubs and Activities

There are tons of clubs, and you can always start your own! And there are always events and activities going on, from dances to musicals to fairs.

Great for these types of students

Christians who are looking for more than just an education; the most important things I've learned so far are in relation to my faith.

Bang for the buck

Worth every penny: the education, experience, and relationships are priceless.

What to do for fun

There are lots of clubs and on-campus activities to get involved in. There are also lots of things to do off campus: go to the beach, explore LA, hike, etc.

Food and Dining

There are tons of options, especially considering the size of the school. It's no 5-star restaurant, but I never find myself missing homecooked meals!

Dorm Life

The dorms are very social places, and a great way to make new friends. Especially freshman year, there are always events going on and lots of ways to get involved.

Academic Rigor

It's as challenging as you make it. If you're looking for difficult classes, sign up for the honors program or choose a difficult major. If you're not the most academic student, look for a major that you enjoy so that the work is worth it, and it won't be impossible.

Tips for prospective students

Visit campus and talk to current students. It's important to visit in person and see what it's like to be a student in day-to-day life. And if you decide to go, get involved! Try new things and be open to meeting new people.

In three sentences

APU strives to put God first in everything. This shines through in the strong sense of community as well as the passion that students have for serving others. The faculty and staff are incredible as well, and are invested into the students and their success.

The dorms may not be in condition(Smith Hall) but they provide all you need for a fun year

Tips for prospective students

Make friends and also learn how to balance time to hang out and time to actually study.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is a Private Christian University, so you have to be comfortable with this environment. The campus is beautiful and quite small, perfect for a community actually knowing each other. The Professors are great and our Track is really good.

Probably average. If you are in the sciences, the small classes are non-impacted system are big pluses. If not, still small class sizes, exciting professors, engaging community.

What to do for fun

Plenty of stuff to do. Beach isn't far. Hiking is within walking distance. Disneyland is 40 minutes away. Tons of events ranging from a massive zombie game to petting bunny rabbits (for the homesick freshmen). APU has a football team and NCAA basketball team.

Food and Dining

This area is improving, just in case you've heard out-of-date bad reports. There are 7+ places to eat on campus using the meal plan. Many say the sandwich shop is better than Subway. I agree.

Dorm Life

Small community (at least as compared to a UC). Dorm life is active and largely without dull moments. There are tons of fun on-campus events.

Academic Rigor

Though the acceptance rate is high and some classes are not very rigorous, still the old adage applies, that you get out of it what is put in. There are many rigorous classes on campus, but some of the general courses are not taken very seriously by students.

Tips for prospective students

Do you want a smaller Christian community? Do you want great Bible classes and also rigor in academics (that might include the sciences?) If you can afford it, APU is right for you.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University as a science major is hard not to love. The professors want to promote and prosper your education, rather than viewing you as annoying undergrads. One of the things i like best is the smaller classes and 6k undergrad campus; I can talk to professors easily and lonely, friendless days are rare.

Angela from Graham, WA

05/06/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

There are always campus safety officers patrolling the sidewalks at night, which we really appreciate. There are two campuses which both contain libraries, so if you are studying late, you can call campus safety at any hour to have them drive or walk you back to your living area. There are trolleys that shuttle students between campuses about every 7 minutes from 7:00am to 11:00pm, so you never have to walk home in the dark. The actual campus in itself is extremely safe, but the surrounding area isn't always as safe, which is why campus safety is constantly patrolling and available if you need them.

Clubs and Activities

There is literally a club for everything. Each student has the opportunity to sign up for any club, but are automatically assigned an Alpha group their first semester, who they will walk through their transition with. Alpha groups are essentially your first group of friends and you do so many activities and outings with them! There is always something happening on campus, you will never be bored!

Great for these types of students

Students who want to build a strong community and network of people, students who love the outdoors, Christian students,

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The first tradition you will experience at APU is the new student candela commissioning on the last night of orientation. The president prays for the students and lights one candle, and it spreads over the hundreds gathered around him. It's such a powerful start. There is a show that upperclassmen student leaders put on called Good Times on the first weekend, where they perform dance routines, hilarious (not corny) skits, and comedy routines. Freshmen Alpha Groups (orientation groups) usually participate in paint wars (self-explanatory and the most fun ever!), and more. There are lots of dating events which are basically just for fun and not serious.

Bang for the buck

APU is definitely not cheap, but I believe that it's absolutely worth it. I've gained experiences and been involved with things that I could not get anywhere else and have learned so much more than just what I'm studying in class. I've grown so much academically, spiritually, professionally, and relationally because of the way the staff cares about the success and well-being of the students.

What to do for fun

APU is just a 45 minute drive from LA, Hollywood, Disneyland, Big Bear for skiing and snowboarding, the beaches, rock climbing, campgrounds, and Pasadena. You are guaranteed to find someone each weekend who is going to one of those places! In Azusa there are tons of frozen yogurt shops, coffee shops, and movie theaters as well as a popular hike just a mile away from campus.

Food and Dining

There are so many different food venues on campus, from the dining halls, sandwich shops, Mexican food, the Texas barbeque, sushi, coffee shops, and more. They do a good job at accommodating to every taste.

Dorm Life

APU has on-campus housing for all class levels, but only freshmen live in dorms. You will be put in a hall with an RA and up to 40 other freshmen of your gender (there are two co-ed dorms, but genders are split). The RAs are not there to just enforce rules. They'll take you in, they encourage you, they stay up late with you, they plan the best events for you, they are intentional with getting to know you. They go through a rigorous application process because APU wants RAs who will be dedicated to building community on the halls.

Academic Rigor

It's a huge work and time investment, but the professors are absolutely willing to help. There are a ton of resources that exist just to help you succeed that it would be rare for you to feel in the dark.

Tips for prospective students

Contact a good variety of current students! They love talking about APU and will give you genuine insight on what it's truly like, rather than just what the advertisements say.

In three sentences

Not only is APU such an intellectually enriching school, but it is the most intentional community you will ever be a part of in your life. The professors are so personable and available to help or talk outside of class, and they place you into so many different student life groups when you first arrive that it is impossible to feel alone or left out. I have never felt so cared for or valued, and its completely genuine and like nowhere else on earth.

Myla from Ventura, CA

04/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Great! It has improved dramatically and now there are campus safety people at every corner all the time and a shuttle that will pick you up anywhere on campus and drop you off anywhere during the night.

Greek Life

None

Clubs and Activities

Clubs are not a huge thing at this campus, but it still exists. I would say the biggest clubs on campus would be Latin American Student Association or the Asian Pacific Club. Some school activities are either department specific, or career oriented, or include listening to guest speakers. There are also almost weekly events like concerts or a movie showing or a foam party or paint splatter party of yacht club or something fun like that too. Intramurals are big here like powder puff football for girls or a soccer team.

Great for these types of students

I am a conservative Christian and I love it here and my roommate, who is the complete opposite of me, goes to raves every weekend and parties, also loves it here. So there is a definitely a wide variety of students here but we all love it because APU is campus where if you want to follow Christ you will, but it is not forced on you. However, if you have a problem with the required six Bible classes and going to chapel three times a week, and required community service hours, then give this school a second thought but it is a Christian campus.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Gospel Sing, a time of gospel worship, is a yearly tradition as is the annual luau party. Also, I didn't know the Marshburn library had three floors until my second year.

Bang for the buck

Great school. Love the fact that you have to live off campus after freshman year because it gives you a real sense of independence. Also, i love the teachers because they all genuinely care about getting to know and remember your name unlike other campuses. Chapels are great and the speakers are awesome for the most part. Also, tons of opportunities to get involved on campus either by being a mentor to an international student or lead a small bible study of freshman or get a campus job.

What to do for fun

There are tons of stuff to do campus. Last week, they had yacht club, this week there is tanktacular, which is put on by Biola and held at the House of Blues, and thats only a few events. Apart from social events, there are also plenty of fundraising events that happen to raise money for missions or raise awareness for sex trafficking, but there is always stuff to do and I love it!

Food and Dining

It is definitely a type of junk food heaven because there are burgers, pizza, mexican food, bbq food, and gelato all at the tip of your fingers so it is hard not to gain the freshman fifteen, and thats only on the east campus. On the west campus, which is about a 5-10 minute walk, there is Chinese food, sushi, sandwich shop, grill, and panini place. Tons of great food, just not that many healthy options. Freshman year you are forced to purchase a massive meal plan which will leave you with a bunch of meals left over, but after freshman year, you will have your own apt with a kitchen and can cook healthier. There are tons of great supermarkets within a couple minute walking distance to the school.

Dorm Life

Absolutely amazing! I lived on the fourth floor of Engstrom, commonly known as the study dormitory, but it was honestly the most amazing time! I knew all the girls on my floor and we were all friends and it was just fabulous! I still keep in contact with all the friends I made and live with some of them!

Academic Rigor

Hard but doable. As a science, nursing major, or music major, it is hard to balance having a social life and doing well in school but other majors like communications or political science are definitely easier. No matter what major you are, the teachers are always more than willing to go out of their way to help you and sometimes invite the class over for dinner at their house. The teachers are awesome and each major is hard work, but definitely doable. I would know since I did try like 3 or 4 different majors!

Tips for prospective students

Chapel is a huge part of this campus so if you have a problem with that then I would suggest looking elsewhere. But at the same time, APU is not the perfect Christian campus that one would most likely find at Biola so don't be shocked when you come here and find that there are actually a lot of things that happen here that you would find widely rampant at public state schools as well. Also, plan to study abroad or go on a missions trip because everyone does.

In three sentences

Even though APU is one of the largest Christian universities, it is still small enough to see familiar faces every once in a while. Small class sizes are a major plus and there is definitely a sense of community on campus. I love the living areas because you are always surrounded my friends and I love that after freshman year, you are forced to live in off campus apartments that really give you a sense of independence.

Brea from Azusa, CA

04/22/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Food and Dining

There are a wide variety of options. There is Mexican, Barbeque, a Coffee Shop, a pizza/hamburger place, two sub shops, sushi, Chinese, two convenient stores and the Cafeteria. You will probably grow tired of the food by the end of the year- but that is to be expected at any college. Also, the dining places on campus don't really have the most convenient weekend hours so usually you have to eat at the food places off campus on the weekends. But Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors have kitchens in their apartments, which is really nice because you can just cook your own yummy food!

Dorm Life

I have had such a great dorm experience. Only freshman live in the dorms which creates a great first year experience. There are four dorms. Trinity which has community style bathrooms and is coed (boys on the first and second halls, girls on the third, fourth and fifth). Engstrom is suite style and coed (guys on first hall. girls on second, third and fourth). Adams is community style bathrooms and is all girls. Smith is community style and is all boys. There are stereotypes to all the halls. Trinity is known as the crazy dorm (as crazy as it gets on a Christian campus). Engstrom is known as the studious and quiet dorm- although still fun. Adams is known for being like a Christian style sorority. And Smith is known for it's brotherhood.

Academic Rigor

It really depends on the teacher that you get. If you want to be challenged academically there are teachers who are passionate about what they are teaching you and you will learn so much. But at the same time, there are some profs who are easy and you can just skate by. It really depends on how much you personally want to be pushed academically.

In three sentences

APU is exactly where God wants me to be. I know the word community gets thrown around a lot, but seriously, the community here is amazing. There are so many genuine, Jesus loving people here who want to love on you, encourage you and get to know you. I love going to college here!

Girl from Azusa, CA

04/20/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

A lot of people like to complain about Campus Safety but, the truth is, they monitor the campus and keep it safe, checking up on suspicious person calls and helping people around campus as well. They make the campus much safer than it would be without them.

Greek Life

I don't think there are Fraternities or Sororities on Campus

Clubs and Activities

I haven't gotten involved in many clubs on-campus but there's lots of dorm and living area activities such as bbq's, hay rides, Get Your Roommate A Date, ect.

Great for these types of students

There are tons of international students on campus, but there's also a large missionary kid group on campus for any TCK's or missionary kids thinking of applying. It's a very global campus and welcoming and good for either those who have lived abroad or are globally minded.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There's lots of interesting niches and locations on campus, all over actually. They have a rose garden and they actually have so many rare trees on campus that they give Tree Tours to visitors. It's a really pretty campus and its fun to see people wandering around observing the trees.

What to do for fun

There's lots to do, many hang out places on campus, lots of hiking opportunities in the nearby foothills, Disneyland isn't too far away, the beach is only 30-45 minutes away, the school is close to Mt. Baldy if you like skiing, and there's tons of activities on campus.

Food and Dining

There are several options on campus, a cafeteria, plus 5 others like a grill, a mexican food station, a sushi bar, 2 mini stores to buy cold or to go food items and drinks, and there is a part grill part caf place

Dorm Life

So much fun. Your RA's plan activities, and you really get to know those you live around. Some of them may become your best friends. Dorm life is one of the best ways to get to know people

Academic Rigor

I don't think it is extremely hard but a lot of people think it's difficult. It's college, you have to be willing to devote time to your studies, but if you do the homework and put some effort into it, you'll breeze through your classes.

Tips for prospective students

If you're going to APU, get involved with activities on campus. It helps you meet people there and make friends as well as to get familiar with the campus layout.

In three sentences

I've loved going to college here. It's a very friendly campus, the food is amazing, the people are friendly, the classes are small and good, the teachers care about you. All in all, I really enjoy going there

Kandace from Riverside, CA

Well organized students who know how to get there work done first, but still want to be social. Especially those who are Christian or are curious about the Christian faith.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Walk-about. Greatest thing that I have experienced at a school in my life. Ask an RA or Res Life about it.

Bang for the buck

Campus is experiencing a lot of growth and fast. It is a great place for students who aren't big on drinking and partying, but still like to have fun. If you can afford it, and you value a Christian atmosphere then you will enjoy it at APU.

What to do for fun

All kinds of groups and clubs. Lots of places to shop and eat. There are ALWAYS some kind of events going on. You almost never run out of things to do or attend here. Get involved.

Tips for prospective students

Get your information in early, participate in a preview weekend, and if accepted try not be get involved in too many activities during your freshman year.

In three sentences

Very friendly atmosphere around campus. Most undergrad students are involved with APU's various extra curricular activities. A lot of fun, but without the typical drinking and partying that people experience in college.

Susie from Pasadena, CA

04/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

The dorms on campus have great activities to b involved with your peers. Sometimes our brother halls will go to see christmas lights on Christmas. We also have this thing called GuyRad where the girl asks the boy on a date with there hall. We also have dances here at nice venues.

Food and Dining

I personally dont like there food at this school. The so called Cafeteria we have here is buffet styled. Its based on luck when u go in there. One day its good and then others its nasty. The only place i go to would be MexiCali. This place is like a Chipotle styled place. Have great burritos and quesadillas.

Dorm Life

The dorm experience will depend on which dorm you stay in. Trinity and Engstrom dorms are the best to be in. They are part of the new dorms here at this school. They tend to usually have fun and great personality's. That's basically the party side or people that live there. Adams is boring and is the oldest dorms. I would say they have fun and school engaged type of people here. They tend to pay more attention to school.

Academic Rigor

Academics here i would say are average depending on what majors you have. For example, nursing is a hard major in aspect of academics. They have to attend many science classes and obtain an A or B average in them. Teachers here though aren't too bad. It just depends on what teacher you may have.

Tips for prospective students

If you are a religious person or wanting to grow in your faith you will fit right it. If you like partying this might not be the right choice because everything is on the low. You would have to know the right people to find out things like that. Also, we have chapel 3 times a week and can only miss 10 chapels in a semester.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific is an average place to go to. We have many great majors here such as marketing, music, and the nursing program. All the teachers here are very engaged in their students.

Miriam from New Castle, PA

04/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Campus safety is a big deal and they do not mess around with it! If something happens on campus or off campus in the town you are notified by email. If you ever feel unsafe walking alone there is a number they give you to call and someone will assist you.

Great for these types of students

Anyone who wants to grow in their faith or try and figure themselves out. If you have that desire along with gaining new knowledge, then this is the place for you!

Bang for the buck

Although this school is pricey it is worth it. The campus is beautiful, compared to other schools and high school, the food is good, there are plenty of ways to get involved and you meet awesome people.

What to do for fun

RA's do a good job of coming up with events to do with the community and those are always fun. For Valentine's day we played broom ball against another school so that was fun. There's days where people play volleyball just for fun or any other sport. Committees on campus also do a good job with planning fun events where you almost always get a t-shirt, who doesn't love cool t-shirts representing the event and the school?

Food and Dining

I am not exaggerating when I say that school food is great! This campus does a great job with having fresh food and even healthy food for those of you who don't like burgers or pizza or whatever else. Everyday they bake muffins and everything else fresh, my favorite is the fruit which is always fresh everyday along with salads and sushi. For a smaller school there are a lot more options than larger schools.

Dorm Life

The first year you live in dorms and they aren't too bad. I feel like the rooms are a decent size compared to other schools I have visited. There definitely is community in the dorms. The second year and upperclassmen live in apartments on campus and those are nice too. You have your own kitchen and living room areas along with bathroom and bedroom. It feels almost like you are living off campus in a real apartment. Also these apartments have pools and hot tubs which is nice.

Academic Rigor

This school is not so hard that you can't pass any classes and will fail but it is harder than a community college or a state school in my opinion. If you like being academically challenged and not only learning something then forgetting about it but actually retaining it then this is the school for you.

Tips for prospective students

Be ready to be challenged, this school is not easy but it is worth it, you will gain new knowledge. Get involved on campus, whether it be a Devotional group or sports or clubs. Check out the counseling center and know where it is at just in case you need to go someday.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University is a school where you are not only challenged academically but also spiritually. The campus is the most beautiful I have ever seen out of all the colleges I have visited. It is a well rounded school where everyone fits in and feels apart of the community.

There are plenty of volunteer, mission, and student leadership opportunities on campus that keep the students busy. It keeps us motivated and builds character.

Great for these types of students

APU is wonderful for dedicated Christians or those looking to increase or gain a Christian outlook. We take the motto, God First seriously and it is shown through all aspects of APU life.

Bang for the buck

APU is very expensive, especially since it is a private, non-profit school. However, it provides a wonderful atmosphere and you get your money's worth.

What to do for fun

There are plenty of areas to hang out with friends and the social life is fun and current. It is good, pure, ethical fun at APU which is why i enjoy it.

Food and Dining

There are a lot of food options on both of the campuses and plenty of healthy options. The hours are decent, except for the weekends which are limited.

Dorm Life

The dorm life at APU is amazing! The people are so fun, nice and respectful. The RA's keep dorm life fun and interesting for everyone.

Academic Rigor

Azusa Pacific University values hard work and effort and academic integrity. The academics are challenging and engaging. All of the teachers genuinely care about their students and the class sizes are small so you get a one-on-one atmosphere.

Tips for prospective students

Come to Azusa Pacific University! You will grow as a person because the teachers and staff challenge you to be the best you can be and to follow true to your values.

In three sentences

Azusa Pacific University provides a wonderful environment for those who hold Christian values. Even for those who are not Christian, Azusa Pacific University is a wonderful community that is accommodating to people from all backgrounds. Azusa Pacific University is dedicated to educating students not only in academics, but in all aspects of life whether it be on a spiritual, personal, or business level.

Kathryn from Ventura, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

0 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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What to do for fun

While I was there, they had quite a few events planned for the visitors. It sounds like they try to encourage fellowship among students through the different events they have through out the year.

Food and Dining

They have such a wonderful variety of food places on campus! If you eat in the cafeteria, its kinda like buffet-style. There are also individual food places on campus such as BBQ, Mexican, sandwiches, and even a coffee shop.

Dorm Life

From what I can gather, all of the dorms look really well kept and if you're lucky you might even be able to live in one of the newer dorms.

Academic Rigor

I have been accepted to the school, but am waiting to hear from the nursing program because that is my intended major. When I visited the campus, I had the chance to visit the nursing facilities and learn about the program. It sounds so amazing! Azusa really tries to give you as much experience as they can before sending you out to work.

Tips for prospective students

Keep on top of deadlines! don't procrastinate until the day before something is due! it just makes life stressful.

In three sentences

Everyone is so welcoming! The students and professors are all informative and kind. So far, I haven't had any troubles with turning in papers for admittance and they are really good about letting students know what they need.

Estefanie from Pomona, CA

Our Campus Safety program is top-notch. The officers and students that work there take their jobs seriously. The office dedicates and strives on keeping the students, faculty, and campus safe 24/7.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Some of the traditions that Azusa Pacific University has is Ring by Spring. This is the tradition where the ladies recieve their engagement ring in their Spring semester of Senior year. Also, we have the tradition of having Humans vs. Zombies for an entire week of school. Moreover, I've noticed that many students walk around barefoot. It's a weird yet interesting concept. Lastly, Azusa Pacific has a Sadies dance, but with a different name. At Azusa Pacific University our Sadies dance is called Les Femmes and it is at the Queen Mary Ship.

What to do for fun

At Azusa Pacific there are many things to do on and off campus. Azusa Pacific does a tremendous job on having events constantly. You will never be bored here. Across the street there is a shopping center with tons of restuarants, movie theatre, and stores for the ladies. Not far away you can go to the mall which is 15 minutes away from campus. Many students on campus tend to go to Disneyland a lot and the beach. Disneyland is about 45 minutes from our campus and the beach is less than an hour away.

Food and Dining

The food on campus is spectacular. Azusa Pacific has seven different eating options on campus. The food varies from Mexican food, American food, Asain cusine, and home coooked meals.

Dorm Life

The dorm life, I believe, is the most fun. Living on campus gives you the opportunity to meet other people that are like you and not like you. The dorm life allows you to find yourself as a person and realize what kind of person you are. Azusa Pacific's dorm life is the best, because the community here makes you want to get out their and talk to people whether or not your an outgoing person.

Academic Rigor

I believe that Azusa Pacific University is a highly academic school, because the faculty and staff want you to succeed. This campus takes attendance for a reason, so that students attend class and exactaly succeed and not waste their time. The professors take the time and effort to make sure that you pass and actually learn.

Tips for prospective students

When your on your college search always visit the campus, because that's how you'll know if your meant to go there. Also, keep your options open and narrow. I only applied to four schools and it kept my stress level low, instead of applying to eighteeen schools and freaking out. Lastly, go to the school that makes you feel like your at home.

In three sentences

I can not picture myself in any other school that isn't Azusa Pacific University. It's community, financial aid, and academic enviornment are only some of the few reasons I came to this school. Azusa Pacific University is a school that envisions academic, spiritual, and physical success.

Alyson from Visalia, CA

Sometime Campus Safety seems pointless because if it's serious, they end up calling the real cops anyways. But it's important that they're there nonetheless.

Greek Life

None.

Clubs and Activities

There are so many different ways to get involved.

Great for these types of students

Great for any student who loves community. If you're friendly, loving, fun, and love a good time with people who you could consider family, APU is for you.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The prayer wall is a brick wall on campus that people can stick paper into with personal prayers, thoughts, or messages on them. Others will read those papers for years to come and the idea is that they will say a prayer for that person after reading their note.

Bang for the buck

Although the school is pricey, I have really changed in so many different ways and I do not regret coming to APU.

What to do for fun

Getting involved in on-campus activities is always a good thing. Whether it be D-Groups (small groups), alpha groups, outdoor activity clubs, or even student government.

Food and Dining

It's important to know how to eat with variety if you attend APU. The cafeteria gets old very quickly, and finding healthy eating options is difficult if you aren't careful.

Dorm Life

Again, it is what you make of it. If you're looking for a fancy hotel-like dorm lifestyle, perhaps APU is not for you. The community is what makes dorm living so amazing.

Academic Rigor

It is what you make of it. If you really dive into the academics then you will find that it is challenging and impressive, even.

Tips for prospective students

I would apply for as many scholarships as you can. I am nearing the end of my freshman year and the finances are very hard to come across. Avoid loans; find scholarships.

In three sentences

The academics at Azusa Pacific University are life-changing and intriguing. Not only are the classes challenging in a productive and sustaining way, they are spiritually fulfilling as well. I would recommend Azusa Pacific to anyone looking for academic and spiritual growth.

Terri from Wilsonville, OR

campus safety works hard at their job. they can be quite slow though. many times if at a help station on campus, it can take them an hour to reach you.

Greek Life

there is no greek like at apu.

Clubs and Activities

apu offers more clubs and activities than any one person has time for. there are things for people of all interests and backgrounds.

Great for these types of students

apu is a great school for students who want that christian community environment and an all star athletics program. many times students have to choose, but here you can enjoy the fun of a public school and the quality of a private school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

apu has many religion areas on campus. these included a replica of the wailing wall, seven palms and a few others that are taken from influences around the world.

Bang for the buck

though apu is a wonderful establishment, many students can not afford to come or stay. even with scholarships and grants, the cost of tuition is way too high and progressively getting higher.

What to do for fun

there are so many things to do for fun around apu. not too far away are the beach, disneyland, and the mountain. it is very easy to get to wonderful attractions if you have transportation. if not, there are always fun things and events happening every week.

Food and Dining

the food is not very good. it has gotten better in recent years, but it still tastes like school food. there are some small shops around campus that serve excellent food, but the primary venues are lacking in quality and taste.

Dorm Life

dorms are strictly for freshman. there are many buildings that are new and well equipped, but the majority of the housing needs to be updated. there are so many students here now that the rooms are often very crowded. however, the events that the dorms take part in are very fun and exciting.

Academic Rigor

academia here is completely dependent on the major one chooses, and the teachers one takes. the honors and nursing programs are very rigorous, and those who dare to double major will be under a lot of stress and pressure.

Tips for prospective students

when coming to apu, make sure to get involved with the leadership programs and all the events that happen on campus. this school works very hard in trying to make everyone feel welcome, so participate and have fun.

In three sentences

azusa pacific university is excellent at accommodating different types of students and creating a warm tight knit environment. being a christian university, there are many strict and limiting rules that are often unnecessary. overall, apu is a wonderful high spirited school with a passion for the community.

Diana from BUENA PARK, CA

it is a wonderful place for all types of students. it is a place to grow closer to god and a place to be cared for us a person.

Bang for the buck

i am truly blessed to be at the orange county campus. it is a wonderful place to study educational counseling. the instructors truly care about us students and shower the love of christ on us by being there for us and helping us when we need them.

What to do for fun

the angel's stadium is across the street. you can catch a game.

Food and Dining

restaurants are near by.

Academic Rigor

the instructors are always available to help a student via phone, email or in person. the academic rigor is excellent.

Tips for prospective students

visit the campus, attend an orientation meeting, and apply as soon as possible to azusa pacific university.

In three sentences

azusa pacific university is an amazing christian university that puts god first. professors, instructors, and staff members are professionals that truly care for students. azusa pacific university is truly an institute that truly displays the love of christ to its student body.

Krista from Concord, CA

campus safety is always on duty and ready to come to your aide when you call.

Greek Life

there is none.

Clubs and Activities

apu offers countless opportunities for students to get involved in clubs like student government and campus life, which plans events. apu sponsors numerous weekend outdoor trips and also has a great list of intramural sports.

Great for these types of students

apu is great for studious students who want to be challenged. it is also great for students who want small class sizes.

Food and Dining

the food is good. there are a lot of different options during the week, but on the weekends most places close down on campus except for the cafeteria.

Dorm Life

the halls set up different events that make it easy to bond with your hall mates. there are not enough rooms for all the students, so many freshman are tripled in a room.

Academic Rigor

it all depends on the professor. there are multiple professors that will push you and expect a lot from you. on the flip side, you can always find a professor where you can easily pass the class.

Tips for prospective students

be involved! apu has so many different clubs and leadership positions that students can be involved in. it is a great way to make new friends and get adjusted.

In three sentences

apu has a great, friendly atmosphere. the campus is well maintained. they want you to succeed in college.

Brittni from Los Angeles, CA

02/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

campus safety at this school is very helpful, and alert at all times. so no need to feel fearful when walking around at night on campus because there is always campus safety near by, which is always a great and comforting thing.

Clubs and Activities

many clubs and activities for all different grade levels and people!

Great for these types of students

yes, this university is a christian university but this particular university is accepting of all backgrounds and welcome people with open arms. however, if you are a student with a christian background, this university is a great place to attend!

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

there are two different campus's (east and west) but the cool thing about this university is that the two different campus's are walking distance and if you don't feel like walking, there is a trolley service provided by the university that is always running!

What to do for fun

there are a lot of fun activities always going on on campus and off. there are several groups to become apart of, and in those specific groups there are opporutnities to build friendships and make memories. activities such as, sporting events, theater events, beach outings, hikes, movie watching etc. there is always opportunity to have fun and meet new people!

Food and Dining

there are a lot of places to eat on campus and off campus. which makes it very convienent for students to grab some food and head to class or their door rooms or even apartments.

Dorm Life

i do not live on campus, but i have friends that do, and they love it! the good thing about living on campus is that you experience the college experience more so than you can when you live off campus.

Academic Rigor

academic wise, this university is very focused on academics and take it very seriously. this school makes sure that academics are addressed in a professional manor and gets students ready for their particular major and career.

Tips for prospective students

take a tour, check it out, even if you never thought you would attend a private christian school, you will see what an amazing school it is on the tour and it will change your mind forever. keep an open-mind and follow your heart, because choosing a university that is best for you is the most important thing!

In three sentences

i knew from the moment that i took a tour of this amazing university, that i wanted to attend this specific school. it is a great school for people of all ages and all religion back grounds. however, it is an amazing and great school for young adults who are christian believers, who want to learn more about god, his word and to meet others who share the same interests.

1.Make sure going to a Christian school is right for you. 2.Come visit the school

Bang for the buck

Worth every cent!!!

Am enjoying being here

I love it here. Everyone is friendly and it is really easy to make friends. This campus is big on community. There are many activities, so your never bored. They offer so many different classes, study aboard programs, volunteer work, and many more. I love that theres a place for everyone.

Am learning a lot

Professors are great and understanding. I learned a lot about myself, my faith and of course on the subjects being taught. This semester I took more faith integrated classes and it tested my faith and ultimately made my faith stronger. :)

Theresa from Chino, CA

If you're looking to grow academically and spiritually and want to be trained on how to contribute to society, attend APU!

Tips for prospective students

Apply for as many scholarships as you can!

Bang for the buck

It is rather expensive but so far it has been worth it.

Am enjoying being here

The community here is wonderful! Diversity is definitely important here and differences are embraced.

Am learning a lot

I have definitely learned a lot here at APU. I've gone through both academic and spiritual growth during my first semester. All of the classes I took this semester challenged me yet allowed me to use the skills I already attained in high school.

Jacob from Azusa, CA

10/04/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

It is great for students that want to focus on school and get a excellent education. If you want to study abroad, they have a fantastic department for that with semesters in the UK, South Africa, LA, and tons of other places.

Tips for prospective students

Go to All Access Preview Weekend!!! It changed my view about APU and convinced me to go. If you can't do that, at least check out the campus sometime. Apply early and talk to the counselor frequently. It is a Christian private school, so you do have to go to chapel and Bible classes. If you're not a Christian, no big deal. We love you anyhow and want you to come as well!

Bang for the buck

The meal plans you get are worth it. The portions are good and you feel like the money towards the meal was worth it. The money spent on housing is very reasonable in my opinion. Honestly, the school is expensive but when you reason the professional education, great morals, and just how great of a school it is in general, it makes sense.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is fantastic. Everyone is so friendly and we all get along great. I am living in the First East of the Smith hall and we get along like brothers. The dorms are normal sized and can be a little crowded if you get three to a room, but it's definitely able to hold three. There are plenty of food choices around campus; everything from barbecue to sushi to Mexican food. It's great food too. The area surrounding can look a little shady at times, but Pasadena and Covina are really close and have plenty of things to do, and are beautiful too. Not too far from the beach and Orange County. It's a great place.

Am learning a lot

I am in my first semester as a freshman I and have already learned so much! The professors are so knowledgable and will actually help you if you need their help. Unlike some bigger schools, you get to know your professors. As a Christian university, we are required to take Bible classes and I have learned tons about my faith. Outside of religious studies, the school is fantastic as well. It's academics are pressing and the teachers require a lot from you, but it helps you learn a lot.

Alison from Los Angeles, CA

09/26/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

This school is great for people who are looking to be involved in a real community. The word community is used probably a hundred times a day here, but it's true, and that's why it's said so much. Transitioning from a public school with little school spirit, and lots of frustration academically was a nice change. I have met tons of cool people, and everyone here is welcoming and excited to meet new people. The professors are truly inspiring, and the activities are nothing but good clean fun. This school is for people who are looking for a deeper relationship with God, without some of the other over the top rules that some Christian schools have. I feel lucky that I ended up here even though it wasn't originally what I had planned for myself.

Tips for prospective students

Come visit the school! You'll see how much is really going on here. There are TONS of things to do most nights of the week, and there are many places for people to get involved. Just don't overwhelm yourself with all there is to do!

Bang for the buck

There are lots of scholarship opportunities here. I feel like the education I am going to receive here will be well worth it once I graduate.

Am enjoying being here

The school is AMAZING during the week! But during the weekend, most of the places on campus close down and there isn't much to do other than study. You can go out with friends, but there isn't much surrounding the immediate area either. But Pasadena is really close by and Los Angeles is only a half hour away. And the location is ideal for things like amusement parks, and that wonderful SoCal beach!

Am learning a lot

This school has a very wide range of academic classes and majors. It's almost overwhelming how much there is to choose from!

Make sure you go on a campus tour, that was what sealed the deal for me. Also, be aware of the APU policies. As a Christian University, APU requires students to attend Chapel, enroll in Bible courses, and abide visitation hour rules. From my experience, some student tend to complain about these policies the most. So make sure that you are aware of what APU requires.

Am enjoying being here

APU has a great community, and I definitely had a wonderful freshman year experience. One of APU's main focus is to provide incoming students with different ways to get involved and build community with your peers. This really contributes to the great experience I'm having.

Jorge from Rancho Cucamonga, CA

All types, everyone has a place here. This school is known for how much involvement opportunities there are here!

Tips for prospective students

My tip for you is to go to this school. Definitly look at other schools just in case but i promise you that you will enjoy a life of great education, friendships, ministries, fellowship, and personal growth at this school.

Bang for the buck

This school cost a ton! I don't have the money to pay for this school, but i'm going anyways because i know i'm getting more out of this school then what i am paying for. It is all worth it and im not just saying that. Financial aid is a scary thing, loans are even scarier, but if you just trust everything will go through like i have, i guarantee you will find that things will work out to your benifit.

Am enjoying being here

I Love being at the school. From the moment i visited, to the moment i arrived for orientation, i was basically obsessed with the school. The community there is amazing, iv never had more friends and closer friends in my life. And i know these are going to be lasting relationships. I have also never experienced life at a level that you do when you go to APU.

Am learning a lot

The professors at APU are amazing, and not only are they great teachers but they are also awesome mentors. Because of the small class sizes, our teachers are able to remember our names and build relationships with us. Sometimes they will invite classes over for dinner, sometimes they will stay later to answer your questions. If your struggling in an area, you will never be denied the opportunity to receive help from them personally. This makes the learning process easier and makes your life a little less stressful!

Kyra from Lake Arrowhead, CA

Students who want to experience a Christian environment without legalistic constraints will love APU. The motto is God First and that is practiced as well as preached.

Tips for prospective students

Go for it! APU has been a highlight of my life and almost everyone I've talked with are so glad they chose APU. It is like a giant family here.

Bang for the buck

It is expensive and my Dad makes just enough to not qualify for CalGrants, but too little to avoid loans. I am praying for extra grants/scholarships to complete my degree. It is a quality education and university atmosphere!

Am enjoying being here

Wow - life long friends who have encouraged and inspired me spiritually, physically and academically. This is a great environment to grow and develop as a whole person.

Am learning a lot

It is not only the classes, but the chapels and study abroad programs that create a dynamic learning experience. I am currently in the Dominican Republic studying Spanish as my minor.

Victoria from Strathmore, CA

If you are looking to grow in your relationship with Christ while you learn to connect what you are learning to your faith, this is the school for you.

Tips for prospective students

If you are looking into this school but are on a lower financial tier, like me, save your money, keep your grades up, and look into the different scholarships you can apply for on campus.

Bang for the buck

Yes, it's expensive. But it is so so worth it. You get what you are paying for.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely love it here. Everyone is friendly - the students, the professors, and the people who work on campus. I love the atmosphere on campus. There is always something to do between all the different groups on campus.

Am learning a lot

The academics are certainly challenging, but the professors and staff are great! The largest class I have had so far had 45 people! If you are struggling at all, you can go to your professors and they will take time to help you with whatever you don't understand.

Mary from La Crescenta, CA

Open-Minded, Christian, Caring, Passionate students. People here are very happy and have positive outlooks on life, get ready to join the club!

Tips for prospective students

The transition to college can be scary, but my biggest piece of advice is to stay positive through whatever life gives you! Be open to change and keep the future in mind! If you haven't visited yet, take a tour of the campus! Visit the department in which you are planning on majoring in. Make sure you are ready to be fully immersed in a Christian environment. Start looking out for sales on things you might need for college and start buying over summer so it's not stressful once you get to school! Read the ENTIRE code of conduct, housing rules, and just be prepared for what is expected of you once you get to APU. Make sure to register for classes as early as possible and ask your academic advisor as many questions as you need in order to be prepared for the year! Stay in contact with your admissions counselor often over the summer if you have questions. Also, get talking to future classmates on Facebook so you can make friends! The APU Class of 2015 page is where I made many friends before even getting to school, you can do the same! Have goals for the school year- not just long term goals, but lots of short term ones that you can achieve throughout the year. Have a mentor. Whether it is your alpha leader, RA, a professor you meet, ask an older person to be your mentor throughout college and guide you through life. Use ratemyprofessors.com to the fullest. You won't regret it. You will regret not using it! Compare book prices on amazon and the bookstore. Don't pay more than you need to.

Bang for the buck

It is worth the price tag, I'll guarantee it!

Will enjoy being here

Beautiful campus, nicest people EVER, close to many places of interest.

Academic Rigor

I have learned so much in this past year. Not just academically, but with who I am as a person, how I interact with people, and where I am with my faith. APU taught me so much about love, life, and Jesus. If you are open to letting God in and honoring him through learning, you will be immersed in knowledge from the professors and staff around you. I have been taught information in a way that can be applied to my life. I never have to ask When am I actually going to use this in real life? because the professors make it very clear. They provide practical ways to understand material and even include life lessons sometimes. They reinforce the fact that God made languages, sciences, arts, and mathematics in a way that makes sense. I have also learned so much from my RA, hallmates, and friends. APU is the gift that never stops giving knowledge and wisdom.

Alyssa from Ontario, CA

Students who want faith incorporated in various subjects and enjoy worship and service will enjoy APU.

Tips for prospective students

Whether you choose this school or any other, I recommend visiting the campus. If you can, do a preview weekend and stay overnight so you can fully experience what campus life is like. If you cannot spend the night, at least schedule a tour of each of the schools you are considering.

Bang for the buck

Honestly, it depends on the program you are in and what you want out of your experience here, but I feel that all of the money I have spent is worth it.

Am enjoying being here

I love the school itself and a lot of the classes and activities, but I must say that the school is predominantly white, and being a minority student on campus can be difficult.

Am learning a lot

I am an education (liberal studies) major, and I love my education classes. I am learning a lot of valuable information that I know will help me as a teacher. Also, we get a lot of actual experience in the classroom which I love. There are however, a few general education courses where I felt that I was not challenged and that I wasted my time and money.

Heather from Azusa, CA

0 out of 4 people found this review useful.
1 person found it offensive.
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Great for these types of students

RELIGIOUS

Tips for prospective students

If you're going to enter the nursing program, it is competitive so keep up your grades and SAT scores.

Bang for the buck

Not sure

Will enjoy being here

Since I live in Azusa, there is good and bad parts. But...where the campus is, the shopping center right by it (like 2 minutes away) is completely renovated and looks nice. The city is predominately hispanic...but the students at APU are diverse.

Celeste from Kilauea, HI

01/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

APU is great for students that want to major in the Sciences. We have a state of the art brand new Science building. It has everything that you could imagine. You will get many opportunities that would not be available to you as an undergraduate at a larger university.

Tips for prospective students

If you are ready for the time of your life in a safe Christian atmosphere then APU is the place for you.

Bang for the buck

APU has been very generous with financial aid which has helped tremendously. I feel that APU is definitely worth the money. I am gaining so much more that an education. I am shaping my world view, making friends for life and developing my ministry gifts.

Am enjoying being here

I do enjoy being at APU but I also miss my home in Hawaii. I have great friends here that help me get through my home sick moments. The ladies on my hall are the greatest group of women that I have ever met. We get along great and APU really works hard to help us get to know each other and feel part of a family.

Am learning a lot

I have learned so much since I started at APU. My fellow students are amazing. I have experienced much more than just academics since I arrived here. I am finding my way in the world. I feel free to debate with my teachers and express my own views. College is a lot more challenging work than high school.

Analiese from Azusa, CA

Students that are looking for: GREAT community Many different educational and ministry opportunities Challenging classes that are still manageable Excellent professors!

Tips for prospective students

You definitely want to try and get a tour of the campus. For a lot of students that has either been the deal maker or the deal breaker. You also should sign up for an All Access preview weekend! That is the best way to decide if APU is the right school for you.

Bang for the buck

Like most other private universities APU is not cheap. One of the greatest things about APU though is that they are very generous with their scholarships. I am from a single parent household and my mom does not make a large amount of money yet my twin sister and I have been able to afford going to APU and living on campus. Do not let money stop you from considering this school!

Am enjoying being here

I love the campus and class size and have truly enjoyed each and every professor I've had this semester. It brightens up my day to see that almost every student walks around with a smile and looks happy to be at APU. As a Catholic at a Christian school it can sometimes be challenging, but APU is welcoming to all religions. Overall, I do not think I would enjoy being anywhere else.

Am learning a lot

I was very scared to start college. I did not think that I could keep up in the classes or manage the work load, but it turns out with good time management and focus it is possible! In high school I was a B and C student, but here at APU I am getting all A's and one B. The professors here are top notch and care about each of their students.

Donald from Waxahachie, TX

12/23/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 6 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Azusa Pacific University is intended for those who do not wish to be content with where they are at in their relationship with Christ as well as for those who do not yet have a relationship with Christ. It is a place for students who wish to be stretched and challenged and who desire the very best out of both themselves and the college they are investing their time, hard work, and money into. This college is for any student who longs to make a lasting impact on the world around them. If you are a leader or an achiever, this is the place for you. If you are not yet confident in your ability to lead or achieve, this place will transform the perception you have of yourself and will make you into what you never thought you could be.

Tips for prospective students

As you prepare to envelop yourself in one of the biggest investments of your life—a college education—desire and intend to make the most out of every opportunity and hold fast to every last experience you are able to grasp. Tap into the resources available to you and get involved. In addition, get to know your professors on a more personal level. After all, they have much to offer and can help you and further you more than you can imagine. Set studying and the completion of assignments, papers, and essays as a top priority, but do not let your studies prevent you from forming meaningful friendships. Take time to be joyful and celebrate. Since college can be stressful, make a habit of practicing the discipline of living an unhurried life from time to time in order to relieve yourself of any disorientation or trauma your hectic schedule may be causing you.

Bang for the buck

Attending Azusa Pacific University is expensive and I will not try to convince you otherwise. However, money should not serve as the final decision maker and determinant of where you go to college. If, when looking to purchase a product, the value outweighs the price, people tend to buy the product. Likewise, because Azusa Pacific is very high in quality and value, and the return on your investment, measured by all you will come to learn and experience, is much greater and immeasurably more than the cost of tuition for four years could ever be, students tend to ‘buy’ into this unbelievable product.

Am enjoying being here

Having finished my first semester as a college freshman, I have sincerely and thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of my experience at Azusa Pacific University and look forward to a spectacular journey ahead and continual growth in the future, both academically and spiritually. It is truly a blessing to thrive and flourish at a place like APU and I am so thankful to be pursuing my undergraduate degree here. Being a Christian non-denominational college, you will have the opportunity to be exposed to a wide variety of church traditions and denominations and will be able to come out of your college experience with a faith you can call as your own. Whether on the trolley stop, at the Dining Hall, in the dorms, or to and from classes, the sense and presence of community here is evidenced by the kindness and genuineness portrayed in the interactions and relationships between students on both a social and personal level. In addition, faculty and staff members are always willing to invest time and energy in their students, especially if students are willing to be the instigators to pursue those meaningful relationships or mentorships. Amidst gorgeous California weather, a scenic mountain backdrop, a large but close-knit collection of diverse students from in-state, out-of-state, and abroad, and a plethora of opportunities and ways to get involved in both the university and surrounding community, Azusa Pacific offers an unforgettable and thrilling college experience with memories lasting a lifetime and with knowledge breeding sagacity.

Am learning a lot

One of the greatest attributes I can ascribe to this university is the quality and depth of the education to be received. Not only will you abound in learning in the academic sense as you continue to gain insight and perception regarding your newfound knowledge, but you will come to learn a great deal about yourself and about God on both a personal and spiritual level. As you discover your strengths, come to the fruition of your spiritual gifts, and align these with your unique personality, you will be able to utilize and maximize your potential for success. The passion present in each of the professors demeanor, intentions, and actions, rooted and educed in the essence of their teaching, is evidently provoked in a sincere, loving, and challenging manner. Amidst rigorous Bible courses and intriguing course work for your major, you will find yourself immersed within the confines of an incredible and indescribable opportunity to receive an education unlike any other. For, at the center of this education rests the motto, “God First,” a statement and priority which proves to hold true even amidst the classroom setting as professors strive to make God the source and center of everything they do, say, and teach. The openness of class discussions and the small faculty to student ratio makes for a wonderful opportunity to connect and grow in a zesty and flavor-filled learning environment.

Carolyn from Phoenix, AZ

God-seeking Christians who want to pursue a life serving God, students who want a well rounded, liberal arts education, and students looking for a college with strong community.

Tips for prospective students

If you come to APU, live on campus! The dorms are the best way to get to know people and to get involved in the campus. Even if you don't attend APU, make sure that you take part in school sponsored events. College is about education, but it's also about learning about yourself and meeting new, amazing people.

Bang for the buck

It is expensive, so if you are looking for a great Christian university with academics, but always 'God First,' APU is the place for you. But if your religion isn't a priority in your life, or you want to skate through an easy college, APU is not worth your investment.

Am enjoying being here

There is great community at APU, it's like a home away from home. Being an out-of-state freshman last year was tough, but APU was kind of like a prolonged summer camp. It is busy and fun along with all of the hard work, so time flies. The people here make the APU experience more enjoyable!

Am learning a lot

When you get past gen-ed's, APU's course work is more difficult than other colleges, but the education is worth the effort.

Alex from Cody, WY

To tell you the truth, anyone. I just met some students who i would least expect to come to this university, and yet they were ecstatic and loved it! Great college for any student!

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus for sure! Its gorgeous here. Also, try and sit in a class, its great to hear see the teaching styles.

Bang for the buck

It's great, but very pricy. Of course like any other student i would hope that college would be easier to afford. Though it may seem pricy on a computer screen or in writing in front of you, but once you get to campus and see what it has to offer, one seems not to think about that too much.

Am enjoying being here

I am enjoying it here. The warm weather helps alot. Sitting outside and read or study is actually enjoyable. Students and Professors here are welcoming and easy to work with.

Am learning a lot

Absolutely loving this college! I first went to a community college in WY and this college tops it by far! The classes challenge you and seen to keep you on your toes. The Professors are humble and seem to always listen to any question, no matter if it is nonsense or not. They have created a great atmosphere for learning and studying. The college doesn't just teach facts in which you have to regurgitate them like other colleges, but rather they apply what they are teaching you to the real world today.

Melissa from West Covina, CA

Overall, this is the perfect college for a social, giving student open to involvement, service, and church.

Tips for prospective students

If anyone is planning on doing nursing at APU, its very impacted right now. You apply for the program once you've taken the prerequisites (organic chem, anatomy, algebra), and only 30 or 40 are accepted each semester (not to mention they offer a high number of pre-filled spots to the top academics of the incoming class). So, for me, I am up against anyone who applied for the actually 15 available spots open for spring. Its tough. As for the school itself, it's a pretty warm, inviting campus. If you are thinking of applying, this is definitely for extroverts, or at least someone willing to be very involved in school life. Freshman have to take an intro to college course, where you're put in groups, and each group has to meet weekly to discuss the meetings and also has to do a community service project together. Each student needs to attend 3 chapels a week, which are sometimes interesting and fun and sometimes random and sorta boring, but not too long, only 50 minutes. In order to graduate, you need 120 credits of community service. I still don't know how the whole system works and how much gets you how many credits, but there's tons of opportunities to do service even just offered by the school. There's two campuses, about a block apart. If you do end up going here, make sure you don't sign up for one class on east campus right before or after one class on west, because if you can't get on the trolley (they have little buses that go from one campus to the other; 4 about 7 minutes apart) you have to book it to your next class. Administration for the most part is really nice, which is uncommon in colleges. Students are nice, I haven't had a problem with any rude, random strangers. All my professors are pretty nice, and I love the class sizes. One of my labs has only around ten people, and most of my classes only have about 20 or 30 students. All my professors know me by name, so its definitely good that you can get to know each other and not be a tiny fish in a sea of a huge lecture hall.

Eli from Ennis, MT

12/24/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

14 out of 14 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Honestly everyone could fit in at this school. We don't necessarily have a specific cookie cutter mold that you have to fit. There are many out of state students that attend here which adds to the diversity. The only requirement that I believe that would be necessary is that you have an open and receptive heart to the Christian lifestyle. There are many on-fire Christians at this school that might catch you off guard if you have never been exposed but they definitely should not intimidate you. You are not required to be a Christian but that doesn't mean that you can go about living any which way you please. The university wants to maintain its reputation of its motto to have God First. It goes all the way up to our president who constantly shows us a God driven heart to care for each and everyone person. If you can just buy into the mission you will enjoy your experience to the utmost. It says in the most cliche verse of the whole Bible, John 3:16, that ...God so loved the WORLD..., the entire world and that is what we are called to do as Christians as difficult and challenging as that may be but with the strength and love that God empowers us with each and every person will feel a sense of belonging. Some people who may not enjoy this experience are ones that dislike: Warm weather Suburban areas Required Chapel attendances (3 a week) Required Community service (120 credits by graduation) Required Bible Courses Having a good time! haha Like I said, this school only requires an open and willing heart ready to listen and act on the way God is pushing or pulling you. Sit back, relax and enjoy our Creators wild ride!!!

Tips for prospective students

There are many tips and suggestions I would have for an incoming student but some of the most important things I told my orientation group was to make the experience what you want it to be. If you want to play sports, if you want to have a large group of friends, if you want to be a leader on campus, if you want to be involved in an organization or program go do it and God will take care of the rest. Honestly you will have no difficulty feeling included or being connected to campus if you put yourself out there just a slight bit. There are many opportunities and events on campus. More than I have heard of from my friends and their college experiences. Believe it or not literally everyone on campus would love to help you or assist you in any way possible all you have to do is just ask. I have never been surrounded by so many quality people at one time. There shouldn't be many worries about being a prospect at this school. Any question or concern you have can be answered and assisted by anyone affiliated with the school.

Bang for the buck

Let’s face it, college is expensive, APU is more expensive. It is private, and with that means lack of state funding. The school however completely makes up for it. Almost everything on campus is new, being renovated or being improved somehow. This is a school that seriously puts its money to the test and does some really amazing things with it. You almost start to become greedy and expect everything to be perfect. Honestly, I know that a lot of students have had a doubt when applying or having to fork out that much money. The thing about it all is that the financial aid office does all that it can and student employment is almost endless. There are plenty of ways to make this school work and every single cent is worth it. There are great food options, great events put on by the school, fantastic learning environments, and cutting edge technology. As a Science major, I have been informed that we received a new science that has all the capabilities that USC does in research. APU does not take its education lightly at all and makes sure to put its money towards things that you can really appreciate and take advantage of.

Am enjoying being here

Along with the academics, the overall aura on campus is unlike anything I have ever experienced. I guarantee me along with everyone else on campus will say that the community is the most amazing thing that they have ever experienced. I’m sure that you can look at any of the other student’s reviews for this school. People truly are sincere in all that they are, whether they are students, staff, faculty, or adjunct. I have not heard of another school where you personally get to know the President and his amazing Godly heart on such a personal level. (Go J Dub!) You have to search a bit to find your specific place but you can most definitely find a people group or circle of friends that will love you and befriend you like never before. I return you end up learning great lessons of humility and servanthood to take and apply to all aspects of your life. The greatest thing about the university that you will notice is how people love to be doing things and having a good time. Since arriving on campus, I have seen more, experienced more, laughed more, and basically lived a more wholesome life than I could ever imagine. This place is a magical place that you have to buy into and sit tight because the God this student body and myself serves takes you through experiences unimaginable.

Am learning a lot

The academics here in Azusa are challenging to say the least. Being a private Liberal arts school, we have smaller classes that allow the professors to get more hands in all different areas of the academic spectrum. The classes require much more than purely studying and test taking. Personally, I think that is a much more rewarding and enriching experience. Having opportunities to redeem yourself after a bad test with some other course work really pays off for the students who don't do their best on tests. Along with more opportunities to raise your grade, you have classroom experiences that allow for conversation and student interaction to be the central focus. The teachers here are here to help you learn the most that you can, not just push you through a system on to the next phase of life. Though you may be frustrated with your teachers and the job they may be doing, look beyond that and see how they attempt to assist you. I am in a Pre-med like major, which has been extremely challenging to excel in. I just finished a course less than a week ago that required many hours of study, days in advance to only receive a B in the course. Though the grade did not meet my expectation of my effort it can be found elsewhere with the vast amount of knowledge that I walked away with. Most courses here are similar. They require a lot but the satisfaction of completion and knowledge gained is irreplaceable!

Alexandria from Spokane Valley, WA

If you're a christian, I think this will be a great place to grow in your faith and as a person, but if you're not, it might me an uncomfortable place for you to be.

Tips for prospective students

If you're touring, be aware that you have to get in your car and drive the the second part of the campus- it's only a few minutes away, so it's not a big deal, but park close to the front if possible.

Bang for the buck

it's a private school, so it's going to be expensive, but it's not as bad as others.

Will enjoy being here

There's a lot of school spirit surrounding the sports, and the christian aspect seems like it's a really big part of being a student here. The students and professors seem really welcoming and open to all types of students. You're about 30 minutes away from LA, which is a bonus when looking for internships. I got to peek in the theatre on my tour and rehearsals for the next musical were already under way- I could totally picture myself on that stage, which got me really excited and would definitely make my college experience here all the more enjoyable. They also have a great study abroad program. Our tour guide had just gotten back from a semester at Oxford in England and loved it.

Nancy from Anaheim, CA

08/19/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

6 out of 6 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

APU is for students who want to learn about different denominations and Biblical interpretations. It's for students who are willing to go to Chapel three times a week and take Bible classes that will go deeper than what you learn in church. I have even come across a few students who don't even believe in God but love the on-campus community and are simply curious about Christianity.

Tips for prospective students

Keep looking for scholarships and be in contact with your department! Don't be afraid to speak up in class, professors love when you put in your thoughts. Make sure you try and get involved and it will be extremely easy to make new friends.

Bang for the buck

Although APU can be pricey, and it's a struggle to keep up with the payments, I could not imagine myself at any other school. This is the school for me!

Am enjoying being here

I love everyone I've met here! People are really open to making new friends and are interested in YOU. At first I thought it was fake, but after talking to people, I have really seen a genuine love in people here. As I said, the professors are great! The school does a great job at planning a lot of events for students like mini carnivals and games for living areas. They require everyone to get involved in a ministry and you can volunteer with kids, elderly people, in urban areas, with food banks, environmental issues, etc. There really is so much to choose from! They also have a lot of clubs like AMIGOS, BSA (Black Student Awareness), Best Buddies, etc. Also, we have student advising every semester where we meet with an adviser who gives us advice on what classes we're taking and makes sure we're on the right track. I really appreciate that because many of my friends at state schools wish they could make an appointment with an adviser, but have to wait in line for hours. Everyone is willing to help! They also have job fairs for graduating seniors. For example, I'm a Liberal Studies major and when I graduate, I can attend the job fair where various schools who are hiring come to campus!

Am learning a lot

One of the things I value most about APU is how wonderful the professors are! They challenge ideas we may have grown up believing, but in an environment that will support us as we learn to make our own decisions in philosophy, religion, history, etc. They challenge your thinking while providing some cushioning so you don't go insane with worry about having any beliefs rattled. All the classes I have taken are worth it!

Anonymous from CA

This school is good for anyone regardless of race, gender, or religion. Just have an open mind about Christianity.

Tips for prospective students

1. Be open to Christianity. 2. Be friendly because everyone is friendly. 3. Avoid all-nighters because it messes up your immune system. (I should know better as a nursing major...) 4. Don't be afraid to ask for advice from professors. They don't bite. 4. Save, save, save your money! Apply for financial aid! APU is a great school with a big price.

Bang for the buck

As much as I love this school, it's very pricey. I just hope I can finish the nursing program without going bankrupt and get a job to pay for school. Then again, we have a new science center and transportation between both campuses. It's really a win-lose situation. However, I guess there would be more bang for the buck because of the increase of the tuition in public universities would probably cost as much as or more than APU.

Am enjoying being here

I love the atmosphere, my fellow classmates, the faculty, and staff. Everyone makes you feel welcome. The professors are down-to-earth and are willing to help. The students are very friendly and you can strike a conversation with anyone just by saying hello. We are kind of like one big family.

Am learning a lot

I learned that this university not only cares about your academics, but also your spirituality. At first, I was kind of at shock with their chapel programs and prayers before class because I have not been exposed to it before, but I grew to appreciate the things they do to keep everyone united in a way. I learned to be more open to everything and everyone.

Elizabeth from West Covina, CA

It is a great for all who want to receive a quality education in a University that holds Christ, Scholarship, Community and Service as their cornerstones.

Tips for prospective students

If you are seeking a great sense of community and scholarship in a institution based on a religious foundation APU is the perfect place. I am Roman Catholic and the way the school practices religion may be different from the way I practice mine, but the school models a loving attitude and completely respects others' beliefs and opinions.

Bang for the buck

Azusa Pacific University is worth every penny. I get the help I need and because of the small size they are willing to work with you on a personal basis. Almost every professor has known me by name and if I had a question regarding something they would always make time to talk to me.

Am enjoying being here

I love APU! I never had a specific college in mind when applying, but after visiting APU and feeling the sense of community and how much they want you to succeed, I felt it was a perfect place to start my life as an 18 year old college student seeking out a new road in life.

Am learning a lot

As a nursing major, science classes have a lot of information that I have had to learn, but science is not the only thing I have learned. I have learned more than I expected this past year, I have learned more about life and fostering greater relationships with others.

Audrey from Azusa, CA

07/14/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

40 out of 41 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Students who are looking to deepen their relationship with Christ, students who'd like to know more about religion, students who are ready to reach out and touch the community, and students who are willing to step out of their comfort zones for God are the students that APU is looking for. Everyone, no matter your race, gender, or religion are welcome at APU. If you have it on your heart to come here, then APU is the right place for you.

Tips for prospective students

My tip for you is to really make sure attending a Christian college is right for you. I've seen so many students come here and absolutely hate it because we're required to take Bible classes and attend Chapel. If you're ready to jump into rigorous academic and Biblical study APU is the place for you.

Bang for the buck

WOW! may be what you were thinking when you saw the cost of APU, but let me tell you; you get everything you're paying for... and more. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to afford APU but the financial aide team was confident I would be able to. I am so glad that I made the decision to attend APU because my education is one thing I will not take lightly. I'm dishing out a good amount of money but it is SO SO SO worth it.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely love Azusa Pacific. When I first saw the size of my dorm room last year, I was a little worried how three girls were going to live there; but I wouldn't change the experience for anything. I bonded with those girls and all the girls on my hall. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The weather is great, the beach is close, the mountains are closer and the atmosphere is all-around perfect.

Am learning a lot

The courses at APU are amazing classes that stretch your intellect. I've learned so much over the course of the past year because my professors are wonderful people who know what they're teaching and are there for their students. APU is a Christian college and my Bible classes are SO intriguing. It's amazing how an academic study of the Bible can challenge what you thought you knew!

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